This classic childhood toy never fails to entertain, allowing little hands to squish, squash, roll, and flatten the malleable dough into endless creations. The idea of playing with moldable dough has been passed down from generation to generation, and it’s no wonder why – the soft texture and nostalgic smell bring back fond memories for adults, making them want their children to experience the same joy.
Play dough is a perfect tool for sensory integration as well as developing fine and gross motor skills. Getting those little hands squishing, rolling, and shaping the dough is a great way for them to build up their motor abilities which is crucial for things like writing, buttoning shirts, using utensils, all those skills they’ll need as they get older. While play dough seems like it’s just for fun, it is low-key helping set the stage for their future development too.
Play dough also sparks creativity and imagination, both necessary for a child’s growth. Rolling the dough into noodles, turning it into a bowl of spaghetti, and playing “restaurant” is more than just a game, it’s imaginative play that helps develop social skills, often underrated from an adult perspective.
Playing with play dough is not only beneficial for development but also a great way to release extra energy. All the pounding, rolling, and squishing can be relaxing and calming. Adding a few drops of essential oils introduces aromatherapy, making play dough a fun way to unwind. It also can serve as a gateway for math, science as well as language development and social development working alongside peers.
If you’re looking to create this childhood classic at home, here’s an easy recipe:
What you’ll need:
– 2 cups plain flour (all-purpose)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup salt
– 2 tablespoons cream of tartar
– Up to 1.5 cups boiling water (add in increments until the desired consistency is achieved)
– Food coloring (optional)
– Few drops of glycerin (optional – adds more shine!)
How to make it:
- Mix the flour, salt, cream of tartar, and oil in a large mixing bowl.
- If using food coloring, add it to the boiling water before combining with the dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the boiling water to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until it becomes a sticky, combined dough.
- Add the glycerin (if using).
- Allow the dough to cool down, then remove it from the bowl and knead it vigorously for a couple of minutes until all the stickiness has gone. This is the most important part of the process, so keep kneading until the perfect consistency is achieved.
- If the dough remains a little sticky, add a touch more flour until it’s just right.
With this easy recipe, you can create hours of fun and developmental playtime for your little ones (or even yourself!). So, grab your ingredients and get ready to squish, squash, and create endless possibilities with homemade play dough.
