2-Ingredient Moon Sand Lunar Sensory Bin

Moon sand is easy to make at home with flour and oil. Create a moon sensory bin for space-themed play time.

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The moon is covered in rocks and dust. It’s kind of like sand, so making your own mixture for a sensory bin is the perfect hands-on activity to teach kids about the moon.

Sensory bins can be made with lots of different items! Start with this moon sand as a base, then add anything else you like for play time. We’ve included some ideas below.

Substitutions and tips

• If you have a child who often puts things in their mouth, you may want to pre-cook the flour for safety. Pour the flour onto a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, then cool completely before adding the oil.
• You can substitute other types of flour and oil, but the texture may be slightly different.
• We haven’t tried it, but have seen others add a dab of food dye to color the moon sand.
• Clean, covered moon sand will last a few weeks. Discard sand that has an unusual texture or smell.

How to make moon sand

You can make this 2-ingredient recipe in any quantity. Combine flour and oil in a ratio of 8:1.

Supplies

• 8 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon canola oil

Instructions

1. Combine ingredients.

Measure and add the flour and oil to a large bowl. Stir with a spatula until completely combined. You may want to use your hands to get it thoroughly mixed.

2. Spread mixture in tub.

Pour the moon sand mixture into a large plastic tub with a lid. Spread it evenly and smooth the surface.

3. Play time.

Add whatever you like to your sensory bin for play time!

• rocks from your backyard
• glass marbles
• spaceship and astronaut toys
• plastic glow-in-the dark stars

Use rocks to make craters. Drive a rover across the surface. Explore the texture of the sand and imagine walking on the moon.

Printable instructions

Moon Sand

Print

Prep Time 5 minutes

Active Time 5 minutes

Total Time 10 minutes

Materials

• 8 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon canola oil

Instructions

1. Combine ingredients.
   Measure and add the flour and oil to a large bowl. Stir with a spatula until completely combined. You may want to use your hands to get it thoroughly mixed.
2. Spread mixture in tub.
   Pour the moon sand mixture into a large plastic tub with a lid. Spread it evenly and smooth the surface.
3. Play time.
   Add whatever you like to your sensory bin for play time! Examples: rocks, marbles, toys, glow-in-the dark stars

More fun ideas from Backyard Summer Camp:

• 10 Summer Sensory Bin Ideas
• 3-Ingredient Salt Dough Recipe
• Easy Homemade Playdough Recipe