7 Of The Best Ocean Sensory Activities For Kids
Our favorite Ocean-Themed Sensory Activities for toddlers, preschoolers and older kids includes sensory bins, slimes, jello & more!
Summer is the perfect time for ocean-themed fun and an amazing chance to mix in some hands-on, sensory-rich play! This season isn’t just about beach trips and seashells—it’s an opportunity to spark curiosity in ways that feel like pure fun while secretly helping kids develop important skills.
It’s a little messy (okay, maybe a lot!), but that’s part of the magic! Sensory activities are a lifesaver when it comes to keeping kids entertained and engaged, whether you’re prepping for a beach day or just looking for something exciting to do on a hot afternoon.
Let’s dive into some hands-on sensory play this summer! You won’t believe how much fun your little ocean explorers will have!
Why Ocean Sensory Activities Are Awesome
Ocean sensory activities aren’t just fun, they’re a fantastic way to let your kids explore the wonders of the sea in a hands-on, engaging way.
These activities give kids a refreshing break from the usual routine, keeping them focused, entertained, and learning. The bright blues, sandy textures, and underwater creatures stimulate their senses while encouraging creativity, fine motor skills, and problem-solving.
Plus, sensory play is perfect for kids of all ages and so easy to set up. These activities immerse kids in the ocean’s magic with wonder and imagination. Embrace the mess, enjoy the giggles, and celebrate the joy of summer!
Ocean Sensory Activities for Kids
Here’s a list of our favorite ocean sensory activities, complete with glittery waves, sea creatures, and all the beachy fun you can imagine! Whether your kids are toddlers, preschoolers, or older, these creative and engaging ideas will create magical memories you’ll treasure.
Click the link in title or description for the full blog post with step-by-step directions, along with helpful tips and tricks!
1. Taste-Safe Ocean Moon Dough
Get ready for a squishy beach adventure with our Taste-Safe Ocean Moon Dough! This soft, moldable dough has a cool, crumbly texture that feels like wet sand—but it’s totally safe for little ones who like to taste-test their sensory play. Dive into the full post for the easiest way to mix up this ocean-inspired fun!
2. Taste-Safe Ocean Chickpea Sensory Foam
Fluffy and full of bubbly fun—our Taste-Safe Ocean Chickpea Sensory Foam is a taste-safe sensory experience that feels like ocean waves crashing on the shore. The smooth, airy texture is perfect for scooping and squishing, and the best part? It’s made with just a few pantry staples! See the full post for the colorful foam adventure.
3. Glittery Ocean Slime (No Borax!)
This Glittery Ocean Slime is oozy, stretchy, and sparkly—just like a magical tide pool in your hands! With no borax in sight, it’s a safe and mesmerizing sensory activity that shimmers like sunlight on the sea. Tap the link to make your own glittery ocean wonderland!
4. Coral Reef Sensory Bin
Explore a vibrant underwater world in this Coral Reef Sensory Bin, packed with soft homemade kinetic sand and crunchy, colorful pasta “corals”! The contrast of textures—smooth and moldable sand with hard, twisty noodles—makes it an irresistible tactile experience. Click through to learn how to create your own reef!
5. Ocean Fluffy Slime (No Borax!)
Soft, stretchy, and extra fluffy—this Ocean Fluffy Slime feels like a squishy underwater cloud! Made without borax, it’s super kid-friendly and fun to swirl and stretch like ocean waves. Check out the full post for the recipe and all the ocean vibes.
6. Ocean Colored Rice Sensory Bin
Bright blues come together in this Ocean Colored Rice Sensory Bin that feels like running your hands through tiny grains of sea-tumbled treasure. The dry, crunchy texture is oh-so-satisfying, and perfect for scooping, pouring, and burying mini ocean creatures. Click through to see how to set up this easy ocean-themed activity!
7. Jello Ocean Sensory Bin
This Jello Ocean Sensory Bin is a squishy, wiggly underwater world that feels totally irresistible! Kids will love digging through cool, slippery gelatin to rescue sea animals hiding beneath the waves. Check out the post to see how to set up this colorful, taste-safe jello ocean sensory bin!
Get Ready For Summer Fun!
Ocean sensory activities are such a fun way to celebrate summer while keeping kids entertained and learning through play. From glittery ocean slimes to beachy sensory bins, these ideas are sure to bring a little extra joy and wonder to your day. So, gather some supplies, embrace the mess, and let the fun begin!
Have favorite ocean sensory activities or tried one of these ideas? Leave a comment below. I’d love to hear all about it!
