Lemon & Mint Sensory Bin That Engages All Senses

Nothing beats the smell of lemons and mint…except maybe the giggles that come from kids pretending to run their own lemonade stand.

This simple sensory activity turns a few kitchen ingredients into a engaging, calming experience your kids will love. It’s low prep, smells amazing, and gives you a moment to smile while they stir, scoop, and explore. Enjoy!

Supplies and Materials

Before you start, gather a few basic items you likely already have at home:

• 1–2 sliced lemons (freshly cut works best for a strong scent)
• A handful of fresh mint leaves (you can keep some on the stem)
• A large bin or container filled with cool water
• Mini strainer (or slotted spoon)
• Spoons (regular or play kitchen ones)
• Plastic cups
• Small bowl

Optional: A drop or two of lemon essential oil for extra scent or a splash of ice water for a truly spa-like vibe.

How to Make a Lemon & Mint Sensory Bin

This bin takes just a couple of minutes to prepare but can entertain little hands for ages.

1. Fill your bin with cool water. You only need a few inches—just enough to make scooping and pouring fun but manageable.
2. Add the sliced lemons and mint leaves. Let them float naturally on top of the water.
3. Place the accessories—strainer, spoons, cups, and bowl—inside or nearby for easy access.

Pro tip: set this up outside on a picnic blanket or towel for easy clean-up and summer play.

How Kids Play

There’s no right or wrong way to play—this bin is all about open-ended exploration. This type of play invites imagination and sensory awareness without a screen in sight.

• Scoop the lemons and mint using the strainer or hands and transfer them into bowls or cups.
• Pretend to make lemonade by mixing water and ingredients, then serve their drinks to you or their toys.
• Stir, pour, strain, and splash. Some kids love the sensory feel of squeezing the lemons or tearing mint leaves.
• Encourage them to smell the ingredients. Ask, “What does that remind you of?” or “Can you smell the lemon in the air?”

Fun Facts About Lemons & Mint

Turn playtime into a mini science or nature lesson! While your child is scooping and sniffing, sprinkle in a few of these fun facts to keep their curiosity going.

Benefits of a Lemon & Mint Sensory Bin

This bin is full of more than you could of ever expect from just lemons and mints. Here are a few things you can expect to gain:

Fine Motor Skills: Scooping, pouring, and straining help develop hand-eye coordination and strengthen small muscles.

Sensory Exploration: The combination of cool water, textured fruit, and fragrant herbs provides a full sensory experience—touch, smell, and even sight.

Imaginative Play: Whether they’re running a lemonade stand or making a magic potion, kids create their own stories and roles.

Language Development: Words like zesty, sour, float, minty, and stir come to life when used in real-time play.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this activity last?
Most kids will play for 15–30 minutes, sometimes longer if you join in or add a new element (like ice cubes or a funnel).

Can I reuse the lemons and mint?
Yes—for the same day. Just rinse and refrigerate between sessions. Discard after a day or two to avoid spoilage.

What age is this for?
Great for ages 2 and up, with supervision. Younger kids may need more help scooping and pouring, but they love the textures and smells.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead?
Not recommended—it won’t provide the same visual or sensory experience as fresh lemons.