Funnel Bin

Objective: Free play and engagement with DIY funnel stand and rainbow rice.

Basic Materials:

For this bin you’ll need rice (sand, water, or any alternative that will fit through the funnels will do just the same), scoops and spoons, two toilet paper rolls, a recycled oblong box, a box cutter, and some tape! To make the funnel stand I started by cutting holes on the bottom side of the box toward the outer edges for the paper towel rolls to fit into in order to function as poles. Second, I cut small holes in the top, a sizable distance apart from each other going across. Remembering that the rims of the funnels themselves are wide at the top and will need to fit when they are all placed next to each other in the stand. Next, I cut one long opening underneath for the rice to fall through. I popped the funnels into the holes, put the stand in the bin, and most importantly taped the “poles” toilet paper rolls, to the sides of the bin to keep the stand from tipping over! This last step is not pictured (as it was a learn as you go situation), but is vital to keep rice from flying with it tipping over. Trust me, I’m speaking from experience!

Benefits:

This bin offers a great pouring practice opportunity and gets that wrist in motion, which helps with fine motor development. Your little gets to see time and time again cause and effect and it is sure to keep them busy for a time!

How I Interact:

I offer a demonstration by scooping up a large amount of rice and pouring it into the funnel. Yumi, at 19 months enjoyed watching the rice spill out, and placing her hand under repeatedly to feel it as it fell onto her hand. She poured rice into the funnel, and eventually added a jar under to catch it as it fell through! This added a sound element and was good fun as she sloshed it around. My only real interaction here was to ensure that the majority of the rice stayed in the bin!