In my previous life as a preschool teacher, playdough was part of my everyday life.  Not only is it fun and encourages creativity and imaginative play, it helps with fine motor skills – those little fingers strengthen muscles as they squeeze and shape.

I have made three or four playdough recipes, this one most recently.  It has lasted for months and is still soft and pliable.  Thanks to Jan Frimpter for the recipe.

PLAY DOUGH

2 c. flour
1 c. salt
4 tsp. cream of tartar
2 Tbs. cooking oil
2 c. water
(optional) food coloring for color and flavoring for smell
Mix dry ingredients, then add liquid.  Mix together.
Stir constantly in quart size saucepan over low heat until a big ball forms.
Remove from heat immediately and you’re ready to play!

Hannah enjoyed sticking the straws into blobs.  I used blue food coloring and some lemon extract, and the color came out nicely but the lemon smell faded quickly.