Looking for a low-prep sensory activity for toddlers? Try pom pom and water play using everyday items like spoons, scoops, and bins. Perfect for fine motor skills and independent play!
When you’re in that part of the day where you just need something simple and engaging, pom pom and water sensory play comes to the rescue. It’s quick to set up, uses things you already have around the house, and keeps little hands busy—often longer than you expect.
This sensory activity supports motor skills, creativity, and independent play, and it’s gentle enough for even young toddlers. Whether you’re using a sensory table, water table, or just a plastic bin on the ground, this activity is a win for both toddlers and parents.
Why Your Toddler Will Love It:
- It’s calming and engaging: The water and gentle textures help toddlers regulate and focus.
- It’s just the right amount of mess: Enough to be exciting, but not overwhelming.
- It’s theirs to explore: There’s no “right” way to play, giving toddlers independence and confidence.
- It grows with them: This activity works for babies (with supervision), toddlers, and even preschoolers, with added challenges
Play Ideas & Variations:
- Super easy to set up and clean up
- Promotes independent and focused play
- Uses everyday household items—no fancy toys required
- Can be reused again and again with no waste
- Gives you a few golden minutes to drink your coffee while it’s still warm
What You Need for Pom Pom and Water Sensory Play:
You don’t need anything fancy! Here’s a list of items you can grab from around the house.
Containers:
- Sensory table
- Water table
- Plastic bin or dish tub
- Large bowl or storage container
Materials:
- Pom poms (a variety of sizes and colors is great-and you can even find them at the dollar tree)
- Warm or cool water
Tools to include for play:
- Scoops
- Spoons
- Measuring cups
- Ladles
- Small bowls or muffin tins
- Strainers or colanders
Let your child choose their favorites—having a mix of textures and tools makes the play more fun and open-ended.
How to Set up Pom Pom and Water Sensory Activity:
- Choose your container: Set up your bin, table, or water-safe container in a spot that’s okay to get wet. Outside is great for warm days, or place a towel or waterproof mat underneath indoors.
- Add water: Just a few inches of water is enough. Warm water feels soothing, cool water adds a sensory contrast.
- Toss in pom poms: Use different sizes and colors if you have them. Toddlers will love watching them float, sink, and squish.
- Add tools: Place spoons, cups, and scoops nearby and invite your toddler to explore
Play Ideas & Variations:
- Sorting: Encourage color sorting into muffin tins or bowls.
- Pouring & scooping: Great for fine motor control and hand-eye coordination.
- Pretend cooking: Add in some measuring cups and play like you’re “making soup” or “pom pom tea.”
- Add ice cubes: Great for summer and introduces temperature contrast.
- Timed scoops: “How many can you scoop in 10 seconds?”—a fun way to add counting.
- Use tongs or tweezers: For older toddlers who are ready for an extra challenge.
Clean Up Tips:
Cleanup is just as easy as setup
- Gently squeeze the excess water out of the pom-poms.
- Lay them flat on a towel to air dry.
- Optional: Wash them occasionally in a mesh laundry bag on a gentle cycle.
- Pour out the water and wipe down your tools or bin.
Pom pom and water sensory play is one of those hidden gem activities that checks every box—fun, low-stress, developmentally rich, and affordable. It’s a staple in our rotation, and I love how much joy it brings while supporting my daughter’s growth.
Whether it’s a slow morning activity, a post-nap reset, or a “please help me fill this hour before dinner” solution, this simple setup delivers every time.
Save this post for later, or tag me on Instagram @lauralivewell if you try it—I’d love to see your little one enjoying it too!
