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A glowing green square with the handwritten words "GLOW in the dark" visible in dark letters, resembling a Glow in the Dark Sensory Bag.
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Glow in the Dark Sensory Bags

Super easy sensory bag idea for toddlers and kids of any age to enjoy making shapes and patterns in glow in the dark eerie fun!
Keyword glow in the dark, glow in the dark sensory bag, sensory, sensory activities, sensory bag
Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Author Christina

Ingredients

  • 1 gallon-size ziplock baggie
  • 1 alcohol pad
  • 8 oz clear hair gel
  • 2-3 tablespoons of glow-in-the-dark paint
  • 1 spoon for stirring
  • Tape painter’s tape or duct tape work best
  • 1 sheet of card stock paper any color
  • 1 Q-tip optional

Instructions

  • Start by collecting everything you need. Lay it out on a table or workspace so you’re not searching for materials halfway through the activity.
  • Use the alcohol pad to wipe off any printed labels or logos on the front of the ziplock bag.
  • In a small bowl or directly inside the bag if you prefer less cleanup, combine 8 oz of clear hair gel with 2-3 tablespoons of glow-in-the-dark paint. Use a spoon to stir until the paint is fully mixed with the gel.
  • Pour the glowing gel mixture into the gallon-size baggie. You can use a spoon to help guide it in without spilling. Be careful not to get any on the outside of the bag, and try to keep the zipper seal clean.
  • Gently press the air out of the bag. It’s best to do this slowly and carefully so the gel mixture doesn’t spill. Removing air helps the bag lay flat and makes it easier for little fingers to squish and move the contents. Once it’s mostly flat, seal the bag tightly.
  • Use painter’s tape or duct tape to secure all four edges of the bag. This adds extra protection so the bag doesn’t accidentally pop open during play. To make it more visually appealing and give it a firmer surface, tape a piece of card stock to the back of the bag. Any color works, but dark colors like black or navy blue really help the glow stand out.