Looking for a simple, budget-friendly activity that will keep your toddler entertained and help build important skills? This DIY I Spy Jar is one of my favorite go-to sensory activities—and the best part is you probably already have everything you need at home.
I recently made one using a mason jar, rice, and a mix of fun little treasures like coins, toy cars, screws, a dice, and even a poker chip. Let me tell you—this kept little hands busy for a long time!
If your toddler loves fun activities like this one, try making homemade playdough or making a fun flower sensory bin.
What Is an I Spy Jar?
An I Spy Jar is a sensory bottle filled with a base (like rice or beans) and small hidden objects. Kids shake, twist, and turn the jar to find each item—kind of like a real-life scavenger hunt in a bottle.
It’s calming, engaging, and secretly educational (we love that!).
Why You’ll Love This Activity
- Encourages focus and concentration
- Builds vocabulary and object recognition
- Supports fine motor skills
- Provides a calming sensory experience
- Super easy to customize with what you already have
Plus, it’s one of those magical activities that feels like play—but is actually learning in disguise.
Supplies You’ll Need
- Mason jar (any size works, but pint or quart is perfect)
- Dry rice (white or dyed for extra fun)
- Small objects to hide inside:
- Coins
- Mini toy cars
- Screws or bolts
- Dice
- Poker chips
- Tiny figurines
- Buttons or beads (only if age-appropriate)
- Strong glue (like super glue or hot glue) for sealing
How to Make an I Spy Jar
1. Gather Your Treasures
Start by collecting all your mini items. This is the fun part—dig through junk drawers, toy bins, or craft supplies.
2. Add a Layer of Rice
Pour a small amount of rice into the mason jar—just enough to cover the bottom.
3. Drop in a Few Objects
Add a handful of your items.
4. Repeat the Layers
Continue layering rice and objects until the jar is almost full. This helps spread everything out so it’s not all clumped together.
5. Fill to the Top
Top it off with rice, leaving just a little space so everything can move when shaken.
6. Seal the Lid
This is important for toddlers! Use strong glue to secure the lid so little hands can’t open it.
How to Play with Your I Spy Jar
- Call out an item: “Can you find the car?”
- Let your toddler shake and rotate the jar to find it
- Celebrate when they spot it!
You can also:
- Create a list of items to find
- Turn it into a quiet time activity – this March activity packet is perfect for quiet time)
- Use it during travel or waiting at appointments
Fun Variations to Try
- Color Theme: Only include items of one color
- Seasonal Jar: Add holiday-themed items (pumpkins, hearts, snowflakes)
- Alphabet Jar: Include items that start with different letters
- Glitter Rice: Dye your rice and add a little sparkle
Safety Tips
- Always supervise toddlers while playing
- Make sure all items are large enough to avoid choking hazards
- Secure the lid tightly with glue
Final Thoughts
This DIY I Spy Jar is one of those simple activities that checks all the boxes—fun, educational, and easy to throw together with things you already have at home.
Whether you’re looking for a rainy day activity, something to keep little ones busy while you cook dinner, or even a thoughtful handmade gift, this jar is a total win.
And honestly? You might find yourself playing with it too 😉