One of my favorite centers I have in my class is the sensory table. This center allows students to play and discover with new objects and materials. They have so much fun touching and playing within this center. I like to change the contains monthly and always try to add new and exciting experiences for my students.
This month I have colored beans and water beads.
I have used colored rice many times in the past, however I found that using white beans is a lot easier when it comes to cleanup. The students absolutely love playing with the beans and the little toys I add in the bucket.
To make colored beans all you need is one bag of beans, 5 - 10 drops of food color, and 1/2 cup vinegar. Put all the contains in a ziplock bag and mix. When the beans are completely saturated, lay them on a piece of tinfoil to dry over night.
The other sensory bin I have is full of clear water beads. I have never used these in a center before but now I don't know how our class went without it. The sensory experience form these beads are amazing and so interesting for the students.
Water beads are polymer beads that absorb water. Traditionally they are used as decoration in vases or bowls. You can purchase water beads at any craft store. I bought the dehydrated clear beads and added them to a bucket of water. The beads took about three hours to plump up.
I honestly believe a sensory center is a must for all TK classrooms. The students love playing with the unique objects inside.