We all know how messy kids love to get. Whether its mud, paint or water, there’s few things they love more than getting it everywhere. It’s good and healthy for your little one to love exploring the world they’re in, but it’s not good and healthy for you to constantly worry about what they’re putting in their mouth and all over themselves. Now, playdough is one of those things that is extremely fun and creative, as well as educational and stimulating for your child, and you can make it at home for half the cost of the shop-bought stuff, and with far less chemicals and preserving agents. We have a simple recipe for making your own playdough that is quick, easy, and most of all fun for all those involved! The whole process of making the playdough and then getting to mess around with it will be so exciting for your kids, and it’s also fun for mum and dad to release their inner child for a while too!
All you need is: 150g Plain white flour 75g salt 1tbsp of vegetable oil 2 tsp cream of tartar (optional, but great for elasticity) 300ml or ½ pint of warm water, mixed with food colouring of your choice 1) Put all the ingredients into a large saucepan, and mix around until it forms a ball of dough (told you it was simple!) 2) Make sure the mixture is finished before taking it off the heat. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour, if it's too dry, add a little water. When you have the smooth, soft, malleable texture you want, you’re all set for playtime! (Although leave to cool on a baking sheet first) 3) When you've finished, store in an airtight container to stop it drying out. Some fun ideas include:- Make different batches with different bright, vivid colours
- Try mixing black and dark blue food colouring together, and adding purple toned glitter for a galaxy style play dough
- Make large circular discs from the playdough, and make hand and foot moulds. You can piece these with a pencil in the top, then bake in the oven for a special keepsake of your little ones.