Winter sensory play ideas for kids

While getting outdoors is one of the best ways for kids to delight their senses, that’s not always easy or possible. . . especially during the winter months.

But given the importance of sensory play in a young child’s development, you don’t want to wait until spring to provide your child with sensory experiences. And fortunately, you don’t have to!

Below are more than 20 wonderful ideas for winter sensory play. From sensory bins to no-mess sensory bags to fake snow recipes, I am sharing enough ideas below to keep your child busy all winter long.

Note: You’ll find more resources for winter learning and fun on my Winter Activities for Kids page.

More than 20 ideas for engaging winter sensory play for your child. From sensory bins to no-mess sensory bags to fake snow recipes, these ideas will keep your child busy all winter long! #sensoryplay #winter #snow #giftofcuriosity #preschool #prek || Gift of Curiosity

Winter sensory bins and small world play

There are some creative and beautiful sensory bins you can create for a winter theme that are sure to capture your child’s attention. Plus, check out the small world play ideas that can be such a wonderful foundation for creative play!

Winter sensory play ideas for kids collage

Easy winter sensory bin from Natural Beach Living

Snowflake sensory bin from Teaching 2 and 3 Year Olds

Polar bear sensory bin from Living Life and Learning

Snow dough sensory bin from Gift of Curiosity

Slippery sledding sensory bin from How Wee Learn

Ice cave small world sensory play from Blue Bear Wood

Snow slope imaginary play from Picklebums

Penguin sensory bin from Mama Smiles

Homemade snow recipes

Not all of us are fortunate enough to live near snow. Some of us have to make do with fake snow. Below are several recipes using different types of ingredients to make your own fake snow.