Let's make it
Instructions.
- 1
Download and print the eight Pirate Play Dough Mats.
- 2
Laminate the pages or place them inside reusable dry-erase pockets if you would like to protect the pages and reuse them.
- 3
Set out play dough and invite your child to choose a pirate challenge.
- 4
Use the mats to give the pirate a beard, fill the treasure chest, decorate the pirate ship, make gold coins, feed the shark, help the parrot find food, build a pirate island, or create a pirate map.
- 5
Store the mats in a folder or binder for another pirate adventure.
Safety tip
- Always supervise children during this activity. Play dough and small pieces may present a choking hazard and should not be eaten. Consider your child’s age, abilities, and developmental level when choosing materials.
- An adult should handle the laminator and any sharp trimmed corners.
From an OT lens
Rolling, squeezing, pinching, pulling, and flattening play dough can support hand and finger strength, bilateral coordination, dexterity, fine motor control, and hand-eye coordination. The open-ended mats also encourage pretend play, storytelling, problem-solving, and language development.
Make it easier or more challenging
For younger children, begin with one mat at a time, use larger pieces of play dough, and demonstrate one simple idea before letting them explore. For an extra challenge, make tiny coins or food using fingertips, roll thin snakes, copy a pattern, or connect several mats into one pirate story.
