The Bean Bucket

A couple of weeks ago I posted THIS simple idea to help keep your toddler(s) entertained. 

Today, I would like to share another great idea that I actually just recently put together for my (almost) 2 year old...

I made him a Bean Bucket and he has been loving it! Not only is a great way to keep him out of trouble, its an awesome sensory learning activity...which is important for brain development. 

Here are the materials you will need for the bucket (luckily you probably already have most of them laying around your house!)

1. Beans

2. Measuring Cups

3. Clear plastic bottles

4. Various sized spoons or shovels

5. Muffin tin (my little one LOVES filling up the tin cups and then dumping them back out)

6. A large plastic bin, the shallow ones are much easier to reach into. 

* Water and sand toys would be a great addition, I just couldn't find any in the middle of December!

I have been meaning to make something like this for a while now, but I was a little hesitant thinking about beans being scattered all over the ground. My little guy has been doing pretty good with it...I just set it up in the kitchen (while I'm doing dishes or cooking), that way when he starts getting tired of it, and throwing beans, I am right there to put the lid on before he gets out of control :)  

A BIG Thanks to Anna who blogs over at Have A Cute Day, for helping me with the idea!