7 Must-Make Busy Bags for Toddlers
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Busy bags for toddlers can be a life-saver when it comes to keeping a little occupied! They’re dirt cheap to make, easy to customize, and really can keep kids busy for quite a while.
What’s the difference between busy bags/bins and sensory bags/bins?
Are busy bags and sensory bags the same? Personally, I consider a sensory bag to be one type of busy bag. Often times busy bugs contain an activity to occupy young hands, but for older babies and toddlers, a sensory bag serves the same purpose as a busy bag!
And then.. what’s the deal with all the different containers? Bags? Bins? What’s the difference? Since there’s no official “Busy Bag Labelling Agency” out there creating definitions, I operate under the assumption that the bag option is more portable and often less messy. A bin or box can serve you well at home, but bags are where it’s at if you’re hitting the road/restaurant/church service/etc.!
It’s worth mentioning that sensory bags are fine for car trips, but don’t bother trying to bring them on board an airplane. Busy bags with a liquid-free activity inside are your best bet for traveling by air!
The list below features both busy & sensory bags, so dig in and see what you think your toddler will like the BEST!
5 Things You Should Know About Sensory Bags
Sensory bags are super fun, but there are a few things you should keep in mind when you’re making them – BEFORE you give them to your toddler!
5 Things You Should Know About Sensory Bags
$1 or less Busy Bags For Toddlers
These busy bags for toddlers are ADORABLE, simple, and create activities toddlers actually doing – the low cost to make them is just a bonus!
Dollar Store Busy Bags By Little House Living
Velcro Dot Craft Sticks Busy Bag
This simple activity can keep toddlers busy for a surprisingly long time and is especially awesome for travel because.. who cares if you lose a few popsicles sticks?! They’re easy to replace.. unlike big brother’s LEGO bricks.
Velcro Dot Craft Sticks Busy Bag by Powerful Mothering
Shaving Cream Sensory Bag for Toddlers
This activity has proven to be a favorite with all of my kiddos at one point or another! It’s mesmerizing to play with – even I catch myself getting sucked in to squishing the shaving cream around.
Shaving Cream Sensory Bag by Best Toys 4 Toddlers
Ocean Sensory Bag
The ocean is amazing and this sensory bag is too! Customize it with your toddler’s favorite ocean animals and watch the magic happen. Kids looooove squishing these bags!
Ocean Sensory Bag by Kids Activities Blog
Restaurant Busy Bag for Toddlers
If you ever go to restaurants, but don’t want to just fork over the phone to your toddler, MAKE ONE OF THESE! I don’t know why I didn’t think to do this sooner with my youngest, but I’m going to start putting it together tomorrow!
Restaurant Busy Bag by The Nerd’s Wife
Simple Craft Stick Shape Puzzle Busy Bag
I’ve seen more complicated popsicles stick puzzles than these, but these simple 2-piece puzzles are sure to please older toddlers in need of an activity.
Simple Shape Puzzle by 7 Days of Play
Which are you the most excited to put together for your toddler? These toddler busy bags are perfect for keeping little hands busy when you need to make a phone call, use the bathroom alone (luxurious!), or spend time in a waiting room or restaurant. Have fun!
You might also enjoy:
- 23 Toddler Activities (Without Screens)
- 14 Rainy Day Toddler Activities
- 3 Homemade Paint Recipes for Toddlers
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