Have you ever made sensory balloons for kids before? Sensory balloons are wonderful for exploring new textures. These texture filled balls are great for sensory play, using as a stress ball, or being part of a calm down basket for your child. Plus, they are so easy to make.

Sensory balloons are a great way for kids, especially those who have texture sensitivities, to safely investigate new textures. Tactile sensory play is a way to play that engages the sense of touch. This activity is all about touch. Your finger tips can feel so much!

SUPPLIES FOR SENSORY BALLOONS

Balloons

Recycled applesauce containers (or other small containers)

Rice

Lentils

Black Beans

Pinto Beans

Macaroni

Funnel

You can find everything inexpensively at either the Dollar Tree or Walmart. You do not need to use everything on this list. Use whatever you have on hand at your house.

Here is a list of other items that you can use as fillers: water, slime, coffee beans, hair gel, popcorn kernels, marbles, water beads, sand, play dough, salt, etc.

Just a reminder to use your judgment on what items are age appropriate for your child. Some of these items may be choking hazards.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Fill each balloon with a different filler – rice, lentils, black beans, pinto beans, and macaroni. Tie the top closed.

2. Next, fill each of the small containers with the different fillers.

3. Finally, place everything on a tray. Make sure to mix up the balloons so that they are not next to the cup containing the same filler.

INVITATION TO PLAY

I love to set up an invitation to play for sensory activities. On a tray, line up the cups of different fillers. Then, mix up the sensory balloons and place them next to the cups. Encourage your child to touch, poke, and squeeze the balloons. Then, have them feel the fillers in the cups. Can they identify what filler is in each texture ball?

Remember to not push or force your child to participate if they feel uncomfortable. Allow them to try and explore on their own, in their own way.

Sensory balloons can be used in activities like this. However, they can also be used as a stress ball or be part of a calm down basket for kids.

For more sensory play ideas, please check out these blog posts. Comment below with what items you would use in the sensory balloons.

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All activities here are activities I feel are safe for my own children. As your child’s parents/guardians, you will need to decide what you feel is safe for your family. I always encourage contacting your child’s pediatrician for guidance if you are not sure about the safety/age appropriateness of an activity. All activities on this blog are intended to be performed with adult supervision. Appropriate and reasonable caution should be used when activities call for the use of materials that could potentially be harmful, such as scissors, or items that could present a choking risk (small items), or a drowning risk (water activities), and with introducing a new food/ingredient to a child (allergies). Observe caution and safety at all times. The author and blog disclaim liability for any damage, mishap, or injury that may occur from engaging in any of these activities on this blog.