Homemade Sand Playdough - Homegrown Friends

Today we are bringing the beach into our home with this fun Homemade Sand Playdough. With the addition of seashells my children had a blast creating their own sand sculptures right in our home!

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WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE HOMEMADE SAND PLAYDOUGH

1 C sand (I took a scoop from our sandbox)
2 C all purpose flour
1 C salt
2 C water
2 TB vegetable oil
4 tsp cream of tartar (found in spice aisle or or buy in bulk on Amazon)

AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT ENHANCED BY MAKING HOMEMADE SAND PLAYDOUGH

mathematics (measuring, counting, addition, subtraction, fractions)
literacy (reading recipe, listening and following instructions)
sequencing
scientific exploration (what happens when we add heat?)
fine motor skills
dramatic play

HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE SAND PLAYDOUGH

Pour the ingredients into a large saucepan and stir together. This is a great opportunity to include your children. Show them how to measure the ingredients and pour them in.

More than one child? Have them take turns pouring ingredients and stirring. This is an easy opportunity to practice basic counting, verbal directions and patience. We sing “We stir and we stir and we stop. We stir and we stir and we stop. We stir and we stir and we stir and we stir, we stir and we stir and we stop. Next person!” It’s a simple song that everyone can learn quickly and helps manage turn taking.

Move the mixture to the stove top and cook on medium heat constantly stirring. In the beginning the playdough mixture will look like very thick pancake batter.

Continue to stir until a ball forms. Remove from heat and cool on a counter top. Be careful! The playdough will be very hot.

Introduce the activity by giving each child a ball of playdough. Place a container of shells on the table. You can also hand our rolling pins, spoons, plastic knives or sticks.

Encourage language development by talking to your children about their work. Instead of say “I like” or “It looks like a…” focus on statements based on what you see. “Luca, look at the way you are putting white shells on top.” “Quinn, I notice you are hiding shells in side your play dough.” These type of statements are conversation starters and will encourage your children to speak about their play. Most importantly, have fun! The play possibilities are endless!