Recipes: Playdough, Finger Paint and More
Fall is the perfect time to cozy up at home. With shorter days and cooler weather, gathering in the kitchen to mix up some home-made art materials can be just the thing to make a darkening afternoon or rainy weekend day into a special time for child and parent alike. Here are some of our favorite recipes for playdough, finger painting and a cool color mixing experience.
Homemade Play Dough
Ingredients
- 3 cups flour
- 1.5 cups salt
- 6 tsp. cream of tartar
- 3 tbsp. oil
- 3 cups water
Directions:
Pour all ingredients into a large pot. Stir constantly over medium heat until a dough ball forms by pulling away from the sides. Knead dough until the texture matches play dough (1-2 minutes). Add food coloring. Store in plastic container. Should last for at least 3 months.
Finger Paint Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 2 cups cold water
- 1/4 cup clear liquid dish soap
- food coloring or food coloring paste
Directions:
- Mix together sugar and cornstarch in a small pan, then slowly add cold water.
- Cook over low heat, stirring until the mixture becomes a smooth; almost clear gel about 5 minutes.
- When it’s cool, stir in clear dishwashing liquid.
- Scoop equal amounts of the mixture into containers and stir in food coloring or, for even more vibrant colors, use food-coloring paste.
Color Mixing
This is a great color mixing/sensorial activity for all ages. Squeeze two primary colors into a large ziplock bag. Tape the bag securely onto a low window or glass door. Your child can explore the results of mixing the paint together by running their hands over the outside of the bag.