Let Them Play With The Dough

There are few things that all of us share as memories of childhood but it seems that play dough is one of them.  There is  something so soothing about playing with that smooth, soft dough.  Rolling it into long “ropes” and squishing it between our fingers, many of us could pass many happy hours just playing with our play dough.

It is comforting to know that in this electronic and digital age, the joy of playing with play dough is as intriguing to children today as it always has been.

One improvement is that now, not only can our children play with their play dough, they can also help to make it.  Making play dough could hardly be any easier and the great thing is, you can make as much as you want for just pennies using ingredients you no doubt already have in your cupboard.   And  you can make it in as many colors as you wish and add clean nice fragrance using essential oils like lavender, orange, or peppermint.   Let your kids play with a lavender scented play dough before bed and it just may sooth and calm them so they sleep better…it’s worth a try.

I buy small plastic containers at the 99 Cent Store that come in a package of 12 small containers for $1.  They are  perfect for keeping your play dough fresh and separated by colors.

If you can’t find these little containers you can, of course, keep your play dough fresh in ziplock bags.  It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 6 months.  Why not make some today with your kids or grandkids, or surprise them and make some for them.  You are bound to put smiles on everyones faces 🙂

Homemade Play Dough

1/2 cup salt
1 cup flour
2 Tablespoons cream of tartar
1 cup water
1 Tablespoon oil
Food Coloring
A couple drops of essential oil like peppermint, orange, lavender (optional but really nice)

Mix all ingredients together in  medium sized saucepan.

Stir over medium heat until the runny, somewhat liquidy dough, comes together in a ball.  Turn it out unto a board and allow it to sit until it is cool enough to handle.  As soon as you can handle the dough without burning your hands, knead it until it is soft and smooth.

Allow it to cool completely and store in a well sealed plastic bag or container.  If you keep it in the refrigerator it will last for up to 6 months.

Then give it to those special little ones in your life and let the fun begin 🙂