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Sensory · The activity desk

Make and shape stovetop playdough

Watch an adult make simple playdough, then shape it after it cools.

Let's play →

A little plan for play

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What you need

One cup of flour, one quarter cup of salt, one cup of water, one tablespoon of vegetable oil, a saucepan, and a spoon.

Age: 3–5 years; choose for the individual child.

Stay with the child throughout. Check the space and supplies, including anything within reach of younger siblings. Skip any activity that is unsuitable. Stop if a child puts non-food material in their mouth or becomes distressed. Use intact books, full sheets of paper, a large child-appropriate crayon and a clean, dry towel. Follow product labels; remove torn paper and keep broken crayons and caps away from children. Adult handles and stores supplies.

Set up: An adult checks ingredients for allergies, measures them, and clears a washable play surface. This dough contains wheat.

Adult's role: Mix and cook the dough over low heat, stirring until it gathers into a soft mass. Remove it from the pan and let it cool completely before play.

Let's make it happen

  1. Watch the adult combine the flour, salt, water, and oil in a saucepan and stir over low heat until a dough forms.
  2. After the adult has cooled the dough completely, press it into one large flat shape and make lines with a finger.
  3. Roll the dough into a large ball and make a new pattern. Stop when you are finished playing.

Make it simpler: Press a single large lump flat with the palm of a hand.

Clean up: Put the dough in a closed container out of reach of children and pets. Wash hands, utensils, and the play surface.

For ages 3 and up with close adult supervision. This salty dough is not food; prevent tasting and keep it away from pets. Discard if spoiled.

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