Fun Fillers: Creative Sensory Bin Ideas
By Glo Pals - Light Up Sensory Bath Toys and Cubes | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: How-to Guides
Discover creative sensory bin ideas using Glo Pals Fun Fillers. Learn how to layer themes, pair with bases, and keep toddlers engaged with simple, low-mess setups.
Quick Answer
To build a creative sensory bin with Fun Fillers, start with a base (like water or rice), add a themed Fun Fillers pack, and layer in tools for scooping and pouring. Rotate themes weekly to keep play fresh.
Why Fun Fillers Work for Sensory Bins
Fun Fillers are themed packs of sensory accessories that pair with a base like water, rice, slime, or play-dough. Each pack includes a variety of small items that add texture, color, and a focal point for imaginative play. Because they are themed, they make it easy to switch up your bin without buying a whole new set of materials.
A common trade-off: themed packs can be more engaging than loose fillers, but they may contain small pieces that require supervision for younger toddlers. Always check the items for size and suitability before giving them to a child under three.
How to Build a Fun Fillers Sensory Bin
- Choose a base: Pick a base that matches your child's age and mess tolerance: water for easy cleanup, rice or play-dough for more texture, slime for a stretchy feel. For toddlers, water or large-grain rice is safest. Test the base with a small amount first to ensure it's not too messy for your setup.
- Add a Fun Fillers theme pack: Open one Fun Fillers pack and scatter the accessories across the base. Let your child discover them naturally instead of dumping the whole pack in one spot. If the pack includes tiny pieces, keep them out until your child is past the mouthing stage.
- Include tools for scooping and pouring: Add scoops, spoons, or tongs to encourage fine motor practice. Show your child how to transfer items from one container to another—this builds hand strength and coordination. Rotate tools weekly to maintain interest; you don't need to change the theme every time.
- Set up a contained play area: Use a shallow bin or tray with a mat underneath to catch spills. Keep the bin at your child's level so they can reach in easily and stay engaged longer. A contained area reduces mess and makes cleanup faster, so you're more likely to repeat the activity.
- Supervise and rotate themes: Always supervise play, especially with small pieces. After a few sessions, swap the theme pack to renew interest—this keeps the activity novel without buying new bases. Store theme packs separately so you can rotate them without mixing pieces.
Featured Product
- Fun Fillers: Fun Fillers come in 9 themed packs and are designed to pair with a Sensory Play Jar or any sensory bin. You can quickly create a new sensory experience by swapping the theme pack, which keeps playtime varied without buying new bases.
Fun Fillers
