Colored pasta or rice is a great thing that is inexpensive to make. Put the desired amount of pasta or rice in a zip-bag. Add a few drops of food coloring and a 1/4 tsp of rubbing alcohol. Zip up and shake, shake until it's all colored. Pour out onto paper towels and let dry (dries quickly). Don't forget different shapes of pasta to keep it interesting!!

I really like this idea. It's not that expensive either!!

OOBLECK (also known as "magic goo") is another great addition to your sensory items. Mix 1 cup of cornstarch with 3/4 cup water. Pour in a shallow pan and work with your hands. OOBLECK is both a solid and a liquid at the same time. It's really a cool thing to play with...for the grown ups, too! The faster you move through it, the stiffer it gets. If you pick some up in your hand and squeeze, it solidifies a bit. It then liquifies again when you open your hand. You can add food coloring and make "slime" or whatever your imagination creates! Have fun!