Quick & Easy 4th of July Sensory Bin

If you’re looking for a wonderful sensory experience for your little kids to celebrate Independence Day while practicing fine motor and measuring skills, then you’re definitely going to want to check out this Quick & Easy 4th of July Sensory Bin!

collage of 4th of July sensory bin images with text overlay: Quick & Easy Patriotic Sensory BinIndependence Day is right around the corner and this Quick & Easy 4th of July Sensory Bin is sure to be a huge hit with your little kids.

4th of July sensory bin filled with red, white and blue water beads, silicone cupcake liners, star cookie cutters and measuring cups
Use red, white and blue water beads and basic kitchen supplies to create a fun way to not only learn about the 4th of July, but also to explore mixing and measuring with preschoolers and kindergartners.  

preschooler scooping water beads with a measuring cup
It seems like just yesterday that we were playing in the snow and here we are starting to think about swimming. Time certainly does fly and especially this year.

preschooler holding measuring cup with water beads
If you recall, we shared an Easter sensory activity as well as a Christmas sensory bin a while back, so I thought it’d be fun to add our take on an easy and inexpensive patriotic sensory activity that’s perfect for hot summer days! 

kindergartner holding water beads in hand
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kindergartner using hands to scoop water beads from 4th of July sensory bin
The little guy and I had a bit of an impromptu History lesson last night. It actually couldn’t have been better timing. Not only are we getting close to Independence Day, but we’re also going to be studying American History for first grade. 

Explore American History with Kids

We talked about the Constitution, read about the Bill of Rights and even learned about the American flag. I already knew that the stripes stood for the original 13 colonies and the stars represent the 50 states, but it was really interesting  to learn the meaning of each color too! 

kindergartner holding a water bead in hand
Sensory experiences are so important for little kids. They learn creative thinking and problem solving skills as well as fine motor skills. They can explore and create with the materials and let’s not forget the sensory experience itself. 

measuring cups and cookie cutters in Independence Day sensory bin
I’ve done my best to include quick & easy sensory bin ideas in our homeschool as often as possible. And you know what? Both kiddos love them for all of the reasons listed above and so many more. 

star cookie cutters in 4th of July sensory bin
If you’re interested in putting together your very own 4th of July sensory bin for your preschoolers and kindergartners, then definitely keep reading. 

Quick & Easy 4th of July Sensory Bin

What you’ll need

  • Red, White and Blue Water Beads
  • Star Cookie Cutters
  • Measuring Cups
  • Silicone Baking Cups
  • Large Bin

Here’s how to do it

  • Follow the manufacturer’s directions to prepare your water beads. Generally we fill a large container with water, pour in a handful of water beads, and allow them to expand overnight. 
  • Arrange water beads, star cookie cutters, measuring cups and silicone baking cups into large bin. 
  • Encourage children to use the red, white and blue sensory bin to practice mixing and measuring. 


This quick & easy 4th of July activity provides hours of fun and a perfect opportunity to keep little hands busy while you read all of your favorite Independence Day picture books to your preschooler or kindergartner. 

silicone baking cups in patriotic sensory bin
After all, reading aloud while the kiddos play is one of our absolute most favorite things to do together. I encourage you to spend time reading to and researching with your little kids. It’s a wonderful experience to learn as a family. And of course I’m always surprised by how much I learn too!

measuring cup with filled red, white and blue water beads
Independence Day Crafts & Activities

If you’re looking for more fun crafts and activities to celebrate Independence Day with your little kids, then definitely take a look at these ones. 


Don’t forget to check back if you’re interested in seeing what we’re up to next week with our island theme. And if you missed it, check out this year’s preschool homeschool space post.

Looking for more insight & inspiration? Here are the top 10 most popular posts from The Keeper of the Memories. You’re definitely not going to want to miss these!

collage of 4th of July sensory bin images with text overlay: 4th of July Sensory Activity for Little Kids