Toddler Time with Playdough

December 9, 2021

When toddlers play with playdough, they are learning the basics about math, art and science. When they play with others, they are developing language and social skills. Using their hands to make shapes in the dough strengthens their fine motor (fingers and hands) skills.

Ordinary items like blocks, plastic cookie cutters, large buttons, plastic spoons or plastic combs can be pressed down on the dough to create shapes (art, math and science). Toddlers can help make homemade playdough (problem-solving) by stirring ingredients.

You can help your toddler create playdough art for holiday gifts. One of the most inexpensive presents for your toddler is homemade playdough. Here’s how to make it, according to the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Uncooked Playdough – Ingredients: 3 cups flour, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, food coloring. Directions: Mix water and food coloring in a bowl, add flower and oil, stir and knead until smooth. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container between uses.

Cooked Playdough – Ingredients: 3/4 cup water, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1 cup baking soda, a drop or two of food coloring. Directions: Mix ingredients, place in a sauce pan, bring to a boil on medium heat, stir constantly until it thickens, and then let it cool. Store in an airtight container between uses.