Let's make it
Instructions.
- 1
Combine the dry ingredients: add the flour, salt, and cream of tartar to a saucepan and mix until evenly combined.
- 2
Add the wet ingredients: stir in the water, oil, and a few drops of orange food coloring. Add a pinch or two of pumpkin pie spice for that cozy fall scent.
- 3
Cook the mixture: place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir continuously. As it heats, it will thicken and pull away from the sides of the pan. Keep stirring until it forms a soft ball of dough.
- 4
Cool and knead: remove from the heat and let the play dough cool completely. Once cool, knead it until smooth and soft. Now it's ready for sensory fun!
Safety tip
- This homemade play dough is intended for sensory play only and is not edible.
- Pumpkin pie spice is optional and may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some children, especially those with sensitive skin or known spice sensitivities.
- This recipe also contains wheat flour, which is a common allergen. Always check ingredients for known allergies and omit the spice if there are any concerns.
- Adult supervision is required, particularly for children who may put play dough in their mouths.
- Adults should handle stovetop preparation and allow the dough to cool completely before play.
- Wash hands after play and keep the dough away from eyes, since spice on little fingers can sting.
- Store the play dough where pets can't reach it. Salt dough can be dangerous for dogs if eaten.
Why Play Dough Is Great for Fine Motor Development
We love simple activities that give children opportunities to strengthen important skills through play. Play dough offers so many opportunities to work on:
Hand strength: Squishing, squeezing, and flattening dough activates the small muscles of the hands.
Fine motor coordination: Pinching off small pieces and rolling tiny balls helps develop controlled finger movements.
Bilateral coordination: Rolling dough into snakes or balls encourages children to use both hands together.
Sensory exploration: Children can explore different textures, pressure, and scents while playing.
Creativity: Open-ended materials encourage imagination and problem-solving.
Fun Ways to Play
Pumpkin pie bakery: Pretend to bake mini pumpkin pies using play dough and pretend kitchen tools.
Roll and count: Roll small dough balls and count how many you can make.
Pumpkin patch: Form little pumpkins, then add stems using play dough.
Silly pumpkin faces: Make silly eyes, noses, mouths, and expressions with different pieces of dough.
Play dough snakes: Roll long snakes, twist them into spirals, and create your own pumpkin pie decorations.
A Little Fall Fun!
You don't need an elaborate sensory bin or a collection of special supplies to make a fun fall activity. Sometimes a batch of homemade play dough is all you need!
Happy playing!
Field Notes
- You only need a tiny sprinkle of pumpkin spice to give the dough that pumpkin pie smell.
- Storage: keep the cooled play dough in an airtight container or sealed bag so it doesn't dry out. Toss it if you notice mold, an unusual odor, or other signs of spoilage.
