Cindy Crushes Programming: Mermaid Sensory Bottles

Our summer reading theme this year is Splash into Summer and we also wanted to program around the new Little Mermaid movie coming out. So in May we had a month of mermaid programs to lead into summer reading. I picked Mermaid Sensory Bottles for my craft. I have not done many sensory crafts before, though I have done Stress Balls before. I was nervous about this craft since it used glitter. Glitter is banned for most programming uses but I got permission for this one craft since you pour the glitter directly into the bottle and then screw on the lid. 

Supplies:

• Glitter
• Water
• Clear Elmer’s Glue
• Mermaid charms or beads to make it more dynamic
• If you are worried about glitter spillage while pouring, you can pour over large rectangle cake pans to help catch any spillage

Step one: Fill the bottle up with clear glue at least one third of the way.

Step Two: Fill up almost to the top with hot water; the hotter the water the better

Step Three:  Close the lid tight and shake the bottle.

Step Four: Add glitter. I used two types of glitter in small bottles and that worked really well We did this directly over trash cans to help alleviate any potential mess.

Step Five: Add bead and charm or any accent pieces you have

Step Six: Close the lid and tighten it over a trash can. You can hot glue the lid on the bottle if you wish, but it is not necessary as long as you tighten the bottle well. 

Step Seven: Shake your bottle and watch it. 

I was nervous about this craft and mine did not look great, but the teens put two glitters instead of just one and that really leveled up the craft. That is the best part about working with teens. They are so excited to help you make yours better!! 

We obviously went with a mermaid theme here, but you can add any types of charms and use any colors to change themes.

See also: https://teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2021/10/04/dyslexia-awareness-month-lets-talk-fidgets-including-diy-fidget-toys/

Filed under: Cindy Crushes Programming, DIY