If you're looking for a simple taste-safe sensory play activity for babies and toddlers, sensory foam is a great place to start. Also known as aquafaba, this fluffy sensory material is made using the liquid from canned chickpeas and just one other ingredient. It's easy to make, budget-friendly and perfect for little ones who still explore with their mouths.    

In fact, research shows using food for play can actually help develop healthy eating habits, and using taste-safe materials offers a safe way to enjoy all the amazing benefits of sensory play, including developing fine motor, language and problem-solving skills.

Using only two ingredients, chickpea water and cream of tartar, this taste-safe sensory foam is quick to make and provides endless opportunities for sensory exploration and play.

How to Make Taste-Safe Sensory Foam (Aquafaba Recipe)

What you need:

• 2 cans of chickpeas  
• 1 tsp cream of tartar   
• Food colouring (optional)  
• PlayTRAY
  

Taste-safe foam recipe:

1. Drain the water (aquafaba) from two cans of chickpeas into a bowl.
2. Add the cream of tartar and a few drops of food colouring, if using.
3. Use a hand mixer or blender to whip the mixture into a foam. 
4. Pour the aquafaba into a PlayTRAY.
5. Add scoops, ducks, or other age-appropriate toys. 
   

Babies and toddlers will love exploring the creamy texture of the aquafaba. And because it’s taste-safe, you don’t need to worry if curious little hands bring some to their mouths during play.

Need some inspiration? Try creating an ocean-themed sensory PlayTRAY with sea creatures and shells, or set up a pretend ice cream shop for scooping, serving, and imaginative play. Take a look at the videos below to see these simple ideas in action.

💡Top Tip: If the aquafaba starts turning back into a liquid, simply whip it back into a foam using a hand mixer. And don’t forget to save the chickpeas for cooking!  

Looking for more taste-safe sensory play ideas? Check out our Sensory Play for Babies blog, packed with over 20 sensory activities for babies and toddlers. For even more inspiration, explore our Baby & Toddler Sensory Play Activity Cards, featuring 30 sensory and creative play ideas for children aged six months to three years — simple to set up, stress-free for you, and engaging for them!