Autumn Sensory Bin
This autumn sensory bin is a simple, hands-on fall activity that uses painted dried beans and everyday tools to invite scooping, sorting, and exploring seasonal colors and textures. It’s easy to prep ahead of time and works beautifully for independent play, centers, or calm-down time.
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What You Need for Autumn Sensory Bin
- (2) 16 oz bags dried white beans Shop
- 1 cup measuring cup Shop
- Acrylic paint (green, brown, orange, and yellow) Shop
- 1 tablespoon measuring spoon Shop
- (4) resealable Ziploc baggies Shop
- Wax paper Shop
- Baking sheet or cooking sheet Shop
- Container with sides (sensory bin or tray) Shop
- Scoops Shop
- Tweezers Shop
- Cups Shop
- Fall-themed toys or loose parts Shop
How to Make Autumn Sensory Bin
Step 1: Gather your materials
Set out all materials on a clear workspace so everything is ready to go before you start painting the beans.
Step 2: Divide the beans
Split the two bags of dried white beans evenly. Add 1 cup of beans to each resealable Ziploc baggie.
Step 3: Add the paint
Add 1 tablespoon (or one good squeeze) of acrylic paint to each baggie. Use one fall color per baggie: green, brown, orange, and yellow.
Step 4: Shake and dry
Seal each baggie tightly and shake until all the beans are fully coated in paint. Line a baking sheet with wax paper to create a non-stick drying surface. Carefully pour the painted beans from each baggie onto the wax paper. Spread them out slightly and allow them to dry for 2–3 hours or overnight.
Once fully dry, pour the colored beans into a container with sides. Place scoops, tweezers, cups, and fall-themed toys into the bin. Invite kids to explore, scoop, transfer, and sort the beans in their autumn sensory bin.
All done!
Your sensory bin is ready for play!
We'd love to see yours! Snap a photo and share it in the comments.
More Sensory Bins
See all Sensory Bins for Preschoolers →
Please Share This Autumn Sensory Bin
If this autumn sensory bin ends up on repeat in your home or classroom, I’d love for you to share it with others who are looking for easy fall sensory play ideas. Save it for later, pin it for fall planning, or send it to a friend who loves sensory bins just as much as you do.
