Sensory play with LIght

 Let your kids play with light! Light is a fascinating subject for kids and a light box can be used to enhance sensory and STEAM skills in playful ways. To learn more about encouraging Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths (STEAM) play, go to Fun Marble Runs!

We were inspired to create this Light Box from this post on The Imagination Tree - thank you so much Mama Anna for your amazing ideas!
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WHAT WE USE:​

• Large clear plastic storage box
• A string of fairy Christmas lights
• Baking paper
• Sticky tape
• Semi-transparent toys and things such as: marbles, magnetic tiles, water beads, wooden sensory blocks and DIY glitter jars
• Scoops and cups

LET'S CREATE!
I put together a simple DIY light box by spreading out the Christmas lights, inside the box. The lead wire came out from the side of the box which I plugged into a power point. Before putting the lid on the box, I lined the inside with sheets of baking paper and stuck it with tape. This helped to dull the light and disperse it evenly inside the box. After putting the lid on, I turned the room lights out and turned the power point connected to the Christmas lights on. The boys then loaded the box with the semi-transparent toys that they had scavenged around for their observation. 

CONNECT & INSPIRE...
The kids had fun looking at the light through the various coloured shapes. They learned some great science, math and motor skills using all the senses such as adding, pattern making, sorting, stacking, balancing, scooping, filling and emptying. Plus, they learned how shadows and silhouettes work. In particular, they enjoyed playing and observing the luminous colours through the wooden sensory blocks we had borrowed from our local Toy Library. 

What sensory play do your kids engage in? 

Go to Amazing Mazes and Painting with Marbles for some more creative STEAM activities.