White rice shaken in a bag with vinegar and food coloring, then dried in bright colors for sensory play.
What You’ll Need
White riceuncooked: 1 cup per color
White vinegar: 1 teaspoon (vinegar version; lemon juice can replace it for scented rice)
OR rubbing alcohol: 1 teaspoon per bag (alternative version)
Food coloringas desired
Zip-top bags or sealed containersparchment paper, measuring spoon
Optional: scoops, bowls, funnels, small cups, small toys
Directions
Put 1 cup of rice in a container or zip-top bag (use more for a bigger batch).
Add 1 teaspoon white vinegar (or 1 teaspoon rubbing alcohol per bag).
Add food coloring until you like the shade.
Close the bag and shake hard for 1 to 2 minutes until the rice is evenly coated.
Spread it out in one layer on parchment paper, paper towel, or a tray to dry (about 30 minutes to 1 hour; about an hour for 1 cup per paper towel).
When dry, move it to a sensory bin. Mix colors for rainbow rice.
Notes
Store in gallon zip-top bags and reuse. The rubbing alcohol evaporates as the rice dries; use vinegar instead, or air the rice longer, if the smell bothers you. Safety: dyed rice is NOT edible, so don't cook or eat it. Raw rice is a choking hazard and can go up noses and into ears, so supervise closely; it's best for ages 3 and up. Grown-ups handle the rubbing alcohol, which is flammable.