Discussion: Using food in Sensory Play

Using food in a sensory bin is extremely controversial among early childhood professionals. If your center participates in Early Achievers or is NAEYC Accredited, you may have regulations that you have to follow regarding materials that can be used in sensory bins.

​For your own research, and reference, we are providing you with links below to explore on your own for more information. These links are optional and are provided to be conversation starters. 

• Using Food in the Classroom, A position statement, by Lisa Murphy
• Parents and Teachers Working Together: Should Food Be Used as Learning Materials? By Terri Jo Swim, Ph.D., and Ramona Freeman, M.A. 
• Play With your Food? Or Not? My Thoughts on Food in Play. Posted on September 6, 2012, Picklebums
• Should Food be used in Preschool Sensory Activities?, By Rachelle, Tinkerlab
• Rice, rice, rice in the bin: Addressing culturally appropriate practice in early childhood classroom, ShamAh Md-Yunus, Eastern Illinois University
• Discussion on food use in the early childhood classroom, Deborah J. Stewart, M.Ed.
• Playing With Your Food… and Senses, Pathways.org​
• 15 Taste Safe Toddler Sensory Play Ideas, Lemon Lime Adventures

Peas and Carrots Sensory Bin

​Dr. Seuss Alphabet Sensory Bin​

Online Resources:
How to Color Rice 
​Dr. Seuss Alphabet Sensory Bin​
Peas and Carrots Sensory Bin​