I’m constantly trying to find ways to keep my kids excited about discovering new things. I came up with this this “eye spy” pack that I love to take on trips to keep my younger kids exploring in the car. The I spy activity bag also makes a great birthday party activity; just print out an inventory of treasures and have older children locate as much as they can.
Supplies:
- 8 cups kaleidoscope rice
- ⅓ yard clear vinyl (8 gauge) **available in all sewing/craft stores**
- Miscellaneous tidbits: I used old party favors, abandoned game pieces, and random household items
- Sewing machine and supplies
Instructions:
Step 1: Fold vinyl over so it is double in thickness and cut the two pieces into a 10″x10″ square.
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Step 2: Use two paper clips to mark your start/stop position for stitching, approximately six inches apart. Do not stitch in between the two paper clips to leave an opening for filling.
Step 3: Using a zig-zag stitch at a ¼” seam, stitch around the entire pouch.
Step 4: Make sure to backstitch at each start/stop position.
Step 5: Begin filling the pouch with the colored rice. I found it easier to use a funnel.
Step 6: Once it is about halfway filled, place your discovery pieces in.
Step 7: Fill in the rest with rice. Your bag will look half empty, but once it is flat, the gaps will fill in.
Step 8: Fold the top of the pouch over and try to get out as much air as possible.
Step 9: Sew the opening closed with a zig-zag stitch.
Step 10: Let the little hands explore!
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