How to Make Aquafaba for Taste-Safe Sensory Play

Welcome back to SwS Sensory Suggestions! Today, we’re diving into a creative and safe way to enhance your little one’s sensory play—by making aquafaba. Aquafaba is a versatile, taste-safe substance made from the liquid found in canned chickpeas. It’s perfect for creating fluffy, fun, and safe sensory experiences for little ones who love to explore through touch and taste.

What is Aquafaba?

Aquafaba is the starchy liquid left over from cooked chickpeas. It has a consistency similar to egg whites, making it an excellent substitute in various recipes and, as we’re about to explore, a wonderful medium for sensory play. The best part? It’s completely edible, so you don’t have to worry if your little one decides to give it a taste.

How to Make Aquafaba for Sensory Play

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making aquafaba:

Ingredients:

• 1 can of chickpeas (make sure they are unsalted)
• A mixing bowl
• An electric mixer or whisk
• Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

1. Drain the Chickpeas: Open the can of chickpeas and drain the liquid into a mixing bowl. Make sure to keep the chickpeas for another recipe—maybe a delicious hummus!
2. Whip the Liquid: Using an electric mixer or a whisk, start whipping the chickpea liquid. It will gradually become frothy and then form soft peaks, much like whipped cream. This can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes, depending on your equipment.
3. Add Food Coloring (Optional): If you want to add some visual excitement to your sensory play, now is the time to mix in a few drops of food coloring. Choose colors that are vibrant and engaging for your little one.
4. Ready to Play: Once your aquafaba has reached a fluffy, whipped consistency, it’s ready for sensory play! Transfer it to a sensory bin or a large tray and let your little one dig in.

Sensory Play Ideas with Aquafaba

Now that you have your aquafaba ready, here are some fun ways to use it in sensory play:

• Rainbow Foam: Divide your whipped aquafaba into several bowls and add different food coloring to each. Layer the colors in a tray to create a rainbow foam for your little one to explore.

• Messy Play Station: Set up a messy play station with aquafaba, plastic spoons, measuring cups, and small toys. Encourage your child to scoop, pour, and bury the toys in the fluffy foam.

• Aquafaba Finger Painting: Spread a thin layer of colored aquafaba on a tray or tabletop and let your child create finger paintings. The texture and colors will provide a stimulating experience.

For a recent Open Play that we held at CFA in Kings Park, we had sensory stations where we used a bin full of blue Aquafaba with little boats so kids could dive into sensory fun!

Why Choose Aquafaba for Sensory Play?

Aquafaba is not only taste-safe, but it’s also incredibly easy to make and versatile. Whether your child has allergies, sensitivities, or simply loves to put everything in their mouth, aquafaba offers a safe and engaging sensory experience. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly option that uses a byproduct you might otherwise toss away.

Clean-Up Tips

While aquafaba is safe and non-toxic, it can be a bit sticky. Be sure to have a damp cloth or wipes handy for quick clean-up. If you’ve used food coloring, consider protecting surfaces and clothing to avoid stains.

Join the SwS Sensory Community

We’d love to see how you’re using aquafaba in your sensory play! Share your creations with us on Instagram by tagging @sensorywithsavannah. Don’t forget to subscribe to the SwS Sensory Suggestions blog for more taste-safe sensory ideas, tips, and resources to support your little one’s development.

Happy sensory playing!

 

Thank you for reading our blog post! At Sensory With Savannah, we’re dedicated to providing valuable resources and products to support your child’s sensory development. Explore our range of sensory products like sensory bins, playdough jars and activity sheets to enhance your child’s playtime. For information regarding in person events and classes, check out our Event Calendar. Interested in adding some sensory magic to your next party? Check out all of our Sensory Celebration Packages we offer! Your journey to enriching sensory experiences starts here!