Toddlers and preschoolers make sense of the world around them through sensory exploration and discovery. Because of this, sensory tables can be a great asset to any preschool classroom. The key is to periodically change the materials, tools, and toys used so that your students are constantly confronted with something unique. Creator of Centers & Circle Time suggests having a theme and revolving all materials around this idea. Themes can relate to weather, holidays, or other overarching topics like transportation, the ocean, cooking, etc. Because of its versatility, you are only limited by your imagination! For springtime, try filling your sensory table with brightly colored rice. If making your own, try this recipe from Centers & Circle Time. Supplies You'll Need - 1/4 cup vinegar - Rice - Food coloring - Spoon Pour rice into a bowl, add the vinegar and a few drops of the desired color. Use the spoon to stir the rice until it is well-coated. Pour rice out onto a covered table top or into a shallow container to dry. Once your rice is dry, it's ready to go into the sensory table! Add plastic eggs, small animals, themed scoops and cups, and other objects that reinforce the theme. Your students will enjoy the new textures and the change of pace! Centers and Circle Time: A Side of Rice Take a look at our online store to find all of the teaching materials you need!
