Did you know that working with play dough helps little hands develop the strength, dexterity, and fine motor control needed for handwriting?

Here’s how we make our fabulous play dough.

1. Put 2 cups of hot water in a bowl.
2. Add 1 cup of salt.
3. Stir to dissolve the salt.
4. Add 1/4 cup oil, 2 Tablespoons cream of tartar, food coloring (if desired), and 4 cups of flour*.
5. Knead well and have fun!

*Rice flour can be substituted to accommodate people with gluten allergies.

What can we do with play dough?

• Roll it out flat, or shape it into balls or logs
• Use cookie cutters to make shapes
• Mix in sequins, glitter, or beads
• Squish it into measuring cups or other containers
• Cut and shape it with plastic utensils
• Make impressions in the play dough with textured objects (for example: sea shells, bottle lids, bubble wrap)

When you’re finished playing, put the play dough in a container with a lid so it’s ready to use on another day!