During the long summer days, I am always looking for stimulating activities to keep my toddler busy.
Well, this sensory animal washing station activity that I am going to share with you today, was a fan favorite!
It is super easy to set up, super sensory, and super fun!
Keep reading to learn what materials you will need, and how to set up this fun sensory animal washing station for your child today!
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What you will need for this sensory animal washing station:
- Animal figurines
- Three bins or containers
- Water
- Soap
- Pouring cups (optional)
- Tongs (optional)
- Chalk (optional)
- Scrub brush (optional)
I was planning to use only farm animal figurines but decided to throw his dinosaur collection in as well. The more the merrier! You could do this with any figurine, or any water-proof open-ended toy!
To begin, I set up three bins outside: one empty bin, one filled with soap and water, and one with plain water.
I put the animals in some dirt to let them get a little dirty. I had chalk outside already, so Lennox and I drew on the animals as well to get them even dirtier.
Then, the fun part. Lennox has always been so intrigued when I wash the dishes, so I knew he would love this part.
I showed him how dirty an animal was, and how he can put it in the soapy water and use a scrub brush to clean the animal off.
Then, by pouring clean water all over the animal, we removed the soap studs. Lennox was so fascinated.
Related post: 20 Loose Parts Outdoor Activities for Toddlers
The fine motor muscles in his hands working by using the tongs, and the sensory play with the water and soap suds running through his hand.
As much fun as he is having playing with these random loose items, he is also learning. He is learning science through the water and soap suds.
Furthermore, he is gaining perception from the weight of the objects he is lifting and the movement of the water. He is learning about health, how to play independently, and communication through new words.
Learning is always so much better through play.
Related post: The Best Open-Ended Toys for Bilingual Toddlers and Preschoolers
Will you try this activity? Let me know, and if you do, upload a picture and tag me on Instagram or Facebook with handle @lorenaylennox. Don’t forget to follow me for more frequent toddler activities!