Calling all my pet-loving pals! Get ready to splash into the newest set-up of our preschool classroom that has the little ones squealing with joy – our very own Pet Washing Sensory Station! 🐾 This might be one of my students’ favorite sensory bins I have put together!
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my full disclosure for further information.
Bathtub Set Up 🛁
Let’s set up our pet-washing sensory bin! All you need is a bubbling water pump, a mini bathtub, fluffy towels, soap, scrubbing tools, and an array of adorable jumbo pets. That’s right, I transformed our sensory table into a bustling pet salon where our preschoolers can let their imaginations run wild and get hands-on with sensory play.
The heart of our sensory station is this fantastic water pump I found on Amazon for just $14! It’s like magic – with a simple push, water flows out, creating a mini bathtub effect that captivates the kids every time. Watching their faces light up as they experiment with controlling the water flow is priceless.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – our pet pals! From fluffy puppies to tiny guinea pigs, we’ve got a whole menagerie of toys ready to get squeaky clean. As soon as the kids lay eyes on them, they can’t wait to dive in and start washing. With each splash and scrub, they’re not just cleaning their furry friends – they’re developing fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and sensory awareness.
Scrub-a-dub-dub 🫧
Of course, no spa day is complete without the right tools! We’ve got loofahs, scrubbers, and even a bottle of soap that the kids can use to lather up their pets. Watching them mimic real-life actions as they give their toys a scrub-a-dub-dub is absolutely adorable.
But the fun doesn’t stop there – oh no! Once the pets are sparkling clean, it’s time to dry them off with our fluffy towels. The kids take such pride in gently wrapping up their freshly washed pets and giving them a cozy cuddle.
As an educator, seeing the joy and excitement on their faces as they engage in this sensory-rich experience is what it’s all about. Not only are they having a blast, but they’re also learning valuable skills through play – from social interaction to problem-solving and beyond.
Plus, the beauty of this sensory station is its versatility. Whether we’re exploring the theme of pets, learning about hygiene, or simply letting our imaginations soar, it’s always a hit with the kids. The language opportunities are endless when it comes to using routine phrases and words while exploring at this sensory bin. You can include phrases such as, “turn the water on/off”, “wash the (animal)”, “dry your (animal)” and so many more common phrases used during bath time!
So, if you’re looking to add a splash of fun to your classroom or play space, I highly recommend setting up your own Pet Washing Sensory Station. With a little creativity and a lot of love, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime – and maybe even inspire a future generation of pet groomers!
Until next time, keep playing, exploring, and making waves of joy with your little ones. 🐶✨