Grade Level: Post-Secondary

Time Required: One 45-minute class period

Learning Outcome: Students will be able to create a sensory tube that can be used as a calming technique for neurodivergent students.

Materials Needed:

  • Plastic bottle or clear tube (e.g., empty water bottle or a clear craft tube with a secure lid)
  • Warm water
  • Clear glue, clear soap, clear corn syrup (to slow the movement of objects inside). Another option is to use baby oil and this will create a wave motion for your tube.
  • Glitter or beads
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Small sensory objects (e.g., buttons, sequins, foam shapes)
  • Hot glue gun or strong tape (to secure the lid)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Introduction to Sensory Tools (5 minutes)
  • Discuss the importance of sensory tools for neurodivergent students. Sensory tubes can help with self-regulation, reduce anxiety, and provide a calming focus.
  • Briefly explain different types of sensory tools used in classrooms.
  1. Planning Your Sensory Tube (5 minutes)
  • Have students decide what they want their sensory tube to look like.
  • Encourage creativity in choosing colors and materials while considering the needs of different students (e.g., using soft colors for relaxation or bright colors for focus).
  1. Creating the Sensory Tube (15 minutes)
  • Step 1: Fill the bottle with any dry ingredients first but if you forget you can add this later.
  • Step 2: Fill the bottle or tube halfway with warm water.
  • Step 3: Add clear glue, clear syrup, clear soap, or baby oil until the container is about ¾ full.
  • Step 4: Add a drop or two of food coloring (optional).
  • Step 5: Seal the bottle tightly and shake to test the movement of the materials inside. Adjust if needed.
  • Step 6: Secure the lid using a hot glue gun or strong tape to prevent leaks.
  • Watch this instructional video for a step-by-step demonstration for oil and water sensory bottle:
  • Watch this instructional video for a step-by-step demonstration for soap/clear glue/clear syrup sensory botte
  1. Testing & Reflection (10 minutes)
  • Encourage students to observe how the materials move and how it feels to use the sensory tube.
  • Ask them to consider: How might this tool benefit different students? What variations could be made for different needs?
  1. Submission & Feedback (10 minutes)
  • Deliverables:
    • Take a clear photo of the completed sensory tube.
    • Write a 3-5 sentence reflection on the experience, including challenges, observations, and potential modifications.
    • Submit both the photo and reflection to the class discussion board for peer and instructor feedback.