DIY Sea Life Sensory Bottle

This DIY Sea Life Sensory Bottle is a perfect rainy day activity, brain break, fidget toy, or a fun I Spy activity for your children. There are so many fun ways to use a sensory bottle and this sea life theme is something kids will love!

Before you get started, make sure to download the free printable Ocean Animals play dough mats as a companion activity to go along with the ocean sensory bottle. You might also want to fill your book basket with these 10 Ocean Themed Books for Kids!

What is a sensory bottle?

A sensory bottle, also known as a calm-down bottle, sensory jar, or discovery bottle, is a container filled with various materials and liquids designed to provide sensory stimulation and relaxation. These bottles are typically used as tools in sensory activities for children and adults alike. The main purpose of a sensory bottle is to engage the senses and promote relaxation, mindfulness, and sensory exploration.

A typical sensory bottle consists of the following components:

Container: The bottle itself is usually made of clear plastic or glass, allowing the contents to be visible.
Liquid: A clear liquid, such as water or clear glue mixed with water, is used as the base to fill the bottle partially. This liquid provides a medium for the other materials to float and move within the bottle.
Sensory Materials: Various sensory materials are added to the liquid, which can include:
- Glitter: Different types of glitter can be added to create a sparkling effect as it swirls and settles in the liquid.
- Beads: Small beads or sequins can be included for visual and auditory stimulation.
- Oil or baby oil: These can be added to slow down the movement of the materials and create a soothing effect.
- Food coloring or liquid watercolors: These can be used to add color to the liquid.
Sealing: The bottle is sealed tightly to prevent any leaks or spills. The cap or lid is typically glued shut to ensure that it cannot be opened by children.

Sensory bottles are used in various settings, including sensory play in schools, therapeutic practices, and as calming tools for individuals with sensory processing disorders, anxiety, or autism. They can be customized with different colors, materials, and themes to cater to individual preferences and sensory needs. When shaken or gently turned, sensory bottles provide a mesmerizing and calming visual experience, making them a popular tool for promoting relaxation and focus.

The specific contents and design of sensory bottles can vary widely, and people often get creative in making their own unique versions to suit their sensory preferences and needs, like this Sea Life Sensory Bottle.

How to Make a Sea Life Sensory Bottle

Supplies Needed for the Sea Life Sensory Bottle:

Sensory bottle (this set has several so you can make more than one at a reasonable price)
Bottle of clear glue
Plastic sea life beads
Bright beads (this is a great set of vibrant colors in a carrying case)
Water

Sea Life Sensory Bottle Directions:

Pour the bottle of glue (9 oz.) into the sensory bottle. Use more or less than 9 ounces depending on the size of the bottle, until it’s about 1/4 full of glue.

Pour the beads into the bottle.

Fill the remainder of the bottle with water, leaving a small amount of space. Do not overfill. Close the bottle and shake well.

Note: If you notice the bottle bubbling up, you can skim the bubbles off with a spoon and discard.

Invite your child to engage with the sensory bottle. Children can identify colors, shapes, sea life animals, and more.

Benefits of Sensory Bottles

Sensory bottles offer several benefits, particularly for children and individuals with sensory processing challenges or those seeking relaxation and mindfulness experiences. Here are some of the key benefits of sensory bottles:

Sensory Stimulation: Sensory bottles provide a multi-sensory experience by combining visual, auditory, and tactile elements. Watching the materials inside move, listening to the subtle sounds they make, and feeling the bottle’s texture can engage and stimulate the senses.
Calming and Relaxation: The slow, rhythmic movement of materials within the bottle can have a calming and soothing effect. This can help reduce anxiety, stress, and agitation, making sensory bottles useful tools for self-regulation and emotional management.
Focus and Attention: Sensory bottles can serve as a focal point for individuals who may have difficulty concentrating or staying on task. Watching the materials inside the bottle can help improve attention span and concentration.
Sensory Integration: For individuals with sensory processing disorders (SPD), sensory bottles can aid in sensory integration therapy. They provide a controlled sensory experience that can help individuals become more accustomed to and better regulate their responses to sensory input.
Self-Soothing: Sensory bottles can be used as a self-soothing tool for individuals of all ages. They provide a safe and portable means of calming oneself down during moments of distress or overstimulation.
Educational Tool: Sensory bottles can be customized with specific themes or educational content. For children, they can be used to teach colors, shapes, and concepts like density and viscosity in a fun and interactive way.
Creative Expression: Making and customizing sensory bottles can be a creative activity. Individuals can choose the materials, colors, and themes that resonate with them, allowing for self-expression and creativity.
Portable and Reusable: Sensory bottles are portable and can be taken anywhere, making them a convenient tool for use at home, in school, during therapy sessions, or while traveling. They can be used repeatedly and are easy to store.
Non-Messy Sensory Play: Unlike some sensory activities that can be messy, sensory bottles are contained and mess-free. This makes them a suitable option for various settings and situations.
Social Interaction: Sensory bottles can be shared and enjoyed with others, fostering social interaction and cooperative play, particularly in group settings or with siblings and peers.

More Sensory Play Ideas

While you’re here, check out these other sensory ideas:

20 Fall Sensory Bins for Fun and Learning

DIY Sensory Bins for Fun and Learning

Christmas Sensory Play Activities and Fine Motor Crafts

Sensory Bins for Hands-On Homeschooling

20 Sensory Bins for Girls

5 Reasons Every Homeschool Should Use Sensory Bins

Multisensory Marine Life Unit Study

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Sara

Author/Speaker/Consultant at Heart and Soul Homeschooling

Sara is a homeschool mom to 3 creative girls. She holds a degree in Social Work specializing in early childhood development, which led to her interest in individualized educational options like homeschooling. She believes that learning should be a lifelong adventure, not just a checklist to get through. She is a writer, avid reader, introvert (INFJ), and dreamer of dreams.