Play Dough Recipes for Kids

There are loads of things you can do with play dough if you think about it. I remember making a giraffe on one occasion back in the day, and it kept me busy for ages. It was fascinating!

Kids can spend hours on end making animals they saw on their last trip to the country, or they can get busy with something they imagine comes from out of space. You can get creative with colors and textures so kids can really go wild and take it to the next level. This is when the little sculptor really comes to life.

Tips About Home Made Modeling Dough

Making play dough recipes for kids is really not difficult. In fact, it couldn't be easier, and I've also included an uncooked play dough recipe you could get your own child busy with so they can brag they actually did everything themselves.

Some people prefer to make a lot at once and this is not a bad idea, but make sure you keep it in a sealed container. Eventually the flour inside the mix will take its toll so you can't keep it forever, but if you find your kids are really enjoying themselves, and this is one of their favorite pass times, then it would just be logical to make a little extra and save yourself some extra work. If you are looking for more texture then opt for the cooked variety.

Recipe for Homemade Play Dough

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups flour
2. 2 cups tepid water
3. 1 cup salt
4. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
5. 2 tablespoons cream of tartar
6. Food coloring of your choice (this can be bright, neon or neutral)
7. Add in scented oil for something extra special

This is an easy play dough recipe for kids because you just cook this up all together over heat until you can feel that the dough has some elasticity to it.

Cool this in a bag or a sealed container. Many people have said their mix can last up to six months. Personally,  I would say it can last between four to six months, which is really not bad if you think about it.

So it may be a good idea to make a selection of colors all at one time to save you from working every time your kids want play in dough. This recipe will make an ample amount for up to four kids so if you think you may have more kids (in case your kids invite some friends over), then you may want to double the recipe.

No-cook Play Dough Recipe for Kids

Often the kids just want to help with everything. This may be helpful at times, but sometimes you have to have a little more patience than usual. A recipe for modeling dough, which has been designed for kids to make, solves the problem and allows kids to come up with something they can really be proud about. In saying that, it's always nice to get kids involved.

The only problem with this variety is that it doesn't last too long. In fact, compared to a shelf life of a couple of months with the other recipe, this one will only last a week.
Make this in small batches; otherwise it will be a waste. You also have to keep it in the refrigerator. Kids will like the fact that the dough doesn't take a long time to make.

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup flour
2. 1/2 cup water (hot)
3. 1/2 cup salt
4. Food coloring of your choice

Mix the flour, salt and water with the coloring and knead it around until it forms a dough that you can pull apart like elastic.

Watch the video below to find out how to make modeling clay with flavored dry drink mixes.

Playing with dough or modeling clay exercises the hands and fingers and develops fine motor skills. Try one or both of these recipes whenever you need a way to keep kids busy for a little while - like rainy days!

Author Byline

Lisa Williams is the author of two children's books, Big Cats and Penguins.

Giraffe image by Alex Bruda under royalty free license via SXC