Giant Water Bead Sensory Table

If you have ever scrolled through Pinterest you have probably seen an assortment of water bead activities. Water beads are such a fun sensory experience, but are also a choking hazard and toxic if eaten. Because of these reasons I am not comfortable using them with children who are still prone to exploring items with their mouths. When I design my curriculum for my classes I teach at Homegrown Studio in West Hartford, CT I focus on activities each developmental age and create opportunities to say “yes” as much as possible. This Giant Water Bead Sensory Table is a safe and fun way for toddlers to explore water beads.

WHAT YOU NEED FOR THE GIANT WATER BEAD SENSORY TABLE

Ziploc big bag XXL (comes as a 3 pack- you will need 2)
water beads
duct tape- I used regular old gray, but check out this crazy colored duct tape
masking tape or clear packing tape

HOW TO MAKE THE GIANT WATER BEAD SENSORY TABLE

If you follow my blog regularly you know I love supersizing projects. I came up with this idea to create this giant water bead sensory table, and then became even more excited when I discovered these giant Ziploc bags. These are the best! They are much thicker than regular plastic storage bags so they won’t burst (I gave it the 20 child seal of approval!). I am so excited about the possibilities of using this as a way for toddlers to explore materials in a group setting.

To create your own Giant Water Bead Sensory Table begin by soaking water beads in a couple cups of water overnight. I use a large storage plastic bin to soak the beads. The beads will start super tiny and by morning the beads will be about the size of dimes. Using a cup or small bowl scoop the water beads and water into a giant Ziploc bag. Next zip the top of the bag, fold it over and secure the top with duct tape. Place this bag into another Ziploc bag and duct tape closed again.

Now for the fun! Lay the bag on a table and tape the sides of the bag to the table. I waited for the children to discover the giant water bead sensory table. What is this? At first they slowly poked the bag.

As the kids became more comfortable they really got into it. Pushing the beads from one side to the next, trying to “catch” the beads and race them too.  So much fun to watch!

My wheels are turning with all the fun things I can add to the giant Ziploc bag. I’m thinking a wintery theme and a Valentine’s Day one too. Can’t wait to hear what you will add to yours!

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