[Crafty Lady] Homemade Play Dough

As I've mentioned a few times, Ashlynn has really gotten into playing with play dough.  It's not a completely self sufficient activity as she usually likes me around to roll the dough into a ball shapes or make things like hats (I mistakenly made a Frosty the Snowman during the holidays, and still am requested to make him every time).  But she's usually entertained for a solid 15 minutes which buys me a nursing session or dinner clean up with her happily, and quietly, occupied.

I found lots of DIY recipes on pinterest and after the first one falling through, this was a solid winner.  We made our first batch in December and are still making our way through it.  I usually rip off a baseball sized portion and let Ashlynn play with that.  If it falls on the floor too much or picks up crumbs leftover from dinner, I toss it.  We still have plenty left and even better, it's still not dried out!  It's made with natural ingredients, however skip the Kool Aid if you are looking to avoid food coloring.  I didn't mind using it, since the dough is so salty I knew Ashlynn wouldn't be tempted to eat it and it makes it smell nice.   I think she tried it once and I've never seen it near her mouth again.  Either way, it'd be totally safe if she did! 

Ingredients

2C Flour
1/2 C Salt
3 tsp cream of tarter
1 packet of Kool Aid 
2 Tbsp oil
2 C Water

Directions

Mix flour, salt, cream of tartar, and Kool Aid in a bowl.  

(I like to measure the items using small measuring cups and spoons, so Ashlynn has more chances at dumping them in!)

Add water and oil and whisk until clumps have dissolved.  Pour into medium saucepan over medium heat.  

Using a spatlula, stir around edges and bottom as dough forms and begins to pull away from sides.  Keep at it until all liquid has turned to dough.  Let cool.

Remove from pan and knead until smooth.  Give husband death glare for groaning over photographer duties, even though you told him you were through!  Store in air tight container.


Break out some soft edged cookie cutters, kitchen utensils (plastic knives, garlic press, potato masher, rolling pin, etc), wooden letter blocks or plastic shapes, and even small toys or action figures to join in the fun!  Get creative and enjoy!