I've always used sensory bins. I have one that is big enough for my 4 little ones to stand around. I have 2 one year olds, 1 two year old and a 3 year old. Because I have little ones, I only do messy bins when I'm sitting there with them and then I use a smaller rubbermaid containers and it's more of a planned activity. In the summer, they have sand and water tables outside everyday, but none of that comes into my house.

For the indoor bins for my young ones...I'll fill it with various items of one colour (large blocks, legos, cups, plates, toys). Other items have been leaves, shredded paper, fake flowers, plastic easter eggs, balls, fabric pieces, little stuffed animals. Anything that is safe for them to play with on their own. Sensory bins doesn't always have to be messy. But all these items, look and feel different, hard/soft, big/small...just have fun with it...the possibilities are endless.