If you’re looking for a low-mess winter sensory activity that works for babies and toddlers, snow play sensory bags are one of my favorite go-to setups.
These sensory bags are designed for high chair play, floor play, or quiet table time, and they’re perfect for younger children who love sensory exploration but aren’t quite ready for open bins yet.
This free download includes interactive winter-themed printables that slide right under the bag, turning simple sensory play into early learning through play.
Why Sensory Bags Are Perfect for Younger Toddlers
Sensory bags are ideal for:
Babies and toddlers who still mouth materials
Parents who want mess-free sensory play
Short attention spans and quick setup
Fine motor development without loose pieces
They also work beautifully taped to:
High chairs
Tables
Windows
Floor tiles
What’s Included in the Free Snow Sensory Bag Download
The free printable pack includes multiple winter-themed designs you can rotate under the bag, such as:
❄️ Snowball counting mats (perfect for pom pom counting)
❄️ Snowflake ABCs backgrounds (for letter tracing exploration)
❄️ Winter Ice Skating tracing paths (great for finger tracking)
❄️ SNOW Letters & Character (great for reveal and trace)
Each design is created to face the child correctly when placed under a sensory bag and taped down.
Snow Sensory Bag Recipe (Parent-Friendly & Low Prep)
This setup works like a recipe — simple ingredients, quick assembly, and easy cleanup.
Ingredients
1 clear zip-top bag (freezer bags work best)
Clear school glue
Clear baby oil
1 drop blue food coloring (optional)
Cotton balls or white pom poms (for snowballs)
Winter-themed printable
White painter’s tape
Instructions
Add the base
Pour a layer of clear glue into the zip-top bag.
Add a small amount of clear baby oil to create a slow-moving, slippery texture.
Color the snow
Add one small drop of blue food coloring.
Gently mix inside the bag until it looks like icy snow.
Add sensory elements
Drop in cotton balls or white pom poms for snowballs.
Press out excess air and seal the bag tightly.
Secure the bag
Place your printable flat on the table or high chair tray.
Lay the sealed bag on top, fully covering the design.
Tape all four corners with white painter’s tape.
How to Use the Snow Sensory Bags
Here are a few easy ways to extend play:
Counting: Push pom poms onto the numbered snowballs
Fine motor: Squeeze, press, and slide snowballs across the mat
Visual tracking: Follow tracing paths with fingers
Language: Talk about snow, cold, winter clothes, and animals
Storytelling: Make up simple winter scenes using the characters
This activity is intentionally open-ended — perfect for short bursts of play or calm transitions.
Safety Notes
Always supervise play
Double-check the seal before offering to your child
Tape bags securely and discard if damaged
Grab the Free Snow Sensory Bag Printables
These snow sensory bag designs are available as a free download, making it easy to try this activity at home with minimal prep.