Easter Sensory Play Ideas (Beyond Just Chocolate Eggs!)

Bunny garden sensory tray with lentils, coloured spaghetti and bunny jars

When we think of Easter, we often think of chocolate eggs, sugary treats, and bunny ears—but there's so much more magic to be found in this season, especially through sensory play. Whether you’re setting up an Easter morning invitation, a playdate with friends, or a calming tray for a quiet afternoon, this post is packed with Easter-themed sensory ideas that don’t rely on chocolate (and won’t leave your little ones bouncing off the walls or having a sore tummy!).

Let’s explore some beautiful, creative ways to celebrate Easter through sensory play—using natural textures, calming colours, and meaningful experiences that spark joy.

1. Bunny Garden Tray

🌿 Set up a little veggie patch!

• Base: Dry lentils, green split peas, or chickpeas

• Add: Mini terracotta pots, felt or wooden carrots, small bunnies, faux grass or moss

• Tools: Scoops, tongs, or little shovels

This activity invites open-ended play, role play (hello, bunny gardeners!), and loads of fine motor fun.

💡 Optional twist: Hide tiny eggs in the “garden” for a tactile egg hunt.

2. Water Play: Bunny Bath Time

🐰 A sweet and simple sensory setup

• Base: Warm soapy water with bubbles

• Add: Plastic bunnies, ducks, or chick figurines

• Extras: A sponge, scoops, and a tiny towel for drying

This is a low-prep, calming sensory activity that’s especially perfect for younger children or anyone who loves water play.

💡 Try adding a drop of lavender essential oil (child-safe) for a calming twist.

3. Playdough Egg Decorating Station

🎨 Create your own Easter eggs—no sugar needed!

• Base: Pastel-coloured playdough (or make your own)

• Add: Buttons, beads, ribbon scraps, mini feathers, cookie cutters

• Tools: Rolling pins, Easter egg molds, mini trays

This setup encourages creativity and fine motor skills—and everything can be reused again and again.

💡 Add vanilla or lemon scent to the dough for a little Easter freshness.

4. Nature-Inspired Easter Potions

🌸 Mix up a bit of magic this Easter

• Base: Bowls or jars of water (plain or coloured with mica or food dye)

• Add: Dried flower petals, rosemary sprigs, orange peel, glitter, shells

• Tools: Spoons, pipettes, small cups or bowls

Potion play is always a hit, and it’s so easy to tie into seasonal themes—especially when using nature-based ingredients. It’s calming, creative, and full of wonder.

💡 Add floating pastel flower ice cubes for a WOW moment.

5. Sensory Egg Hunt (Without the Sugar)

🥚 Hide tiny treasures inside plastic eggs for a surprise-filled sensory bin!

• Base: Coloured rice, shredded paper, oats, or chickpeas

• Add: Plastic Easter eggs filled with pom-poms, feathers, bells, mini erasers, or nature finds

• Tools: Tongs, spoons, scoops, or baskets for collecting

This is a fun way to add fine motor skills, texture exploration, and sorting into a playful Easter hunt.

💡 Ideal for mixed ages—just swap items to suit your child’s stage (no small parts for those still mouthing!).

6. Calm Corner: Easter Sensory Bottles

✨ Perfect for quiet time or travel

• Bottle: Fill with water + clear glue

• Add: Pastel sequins, mini bunnies, glitter, beads, or confetti

• Secure tightly (glue the lid if needed)

These make beautiful calming bottles that kids can shake, turn, and explore visually.

💡 They also double as Easter gifts for playgroup or class friends!

There’s so much joy to be found beyond the chocolate eggs this Easter. With a few thoughtful materials and a little creativity, sensory play can bring the magic of the season to life—in ways that are engaging, calming, and meaningful for little ones. Whether it’s a garden tray, a playdough invitation, or a peaceful potion station, your Easter setup can be full of connection, curiosity, and creativity.

✨ Want a head start? Check out our Easter Sensory Kits, curated with love to make setting up easier than ever.

Disclaimer

All sensory play activities should be supervised by a responsible adult. Always consider your child’s age and developmental stage, especially if they are still mouthing objects. Only offer materials that are safe and appropriate. Avoid small parts for younger children. Water play should always be closely monitored. Wonder Seekers Sensory Play is not responsible for any injuries or incidents resulting from the use of these activities. Please use your best judgment and ensure a safe play environment.