Top 5 Benefits (Recipe Included)
Making playdough at home is a fun and easy activity that can keep kids entertained for hours. But did you know that playdough can also be a valuable tool for occupational therapy (OT)?
The fun-coloured clay provides a variety of benefits for children who are working on developing their fine motor skills, hand strength, and coordination. Here are a few of the ways that OT professionals use it in therapy:
- Strengthens hand muscles: Kneading, pinching, and rolling playdough helps to strengthen the muscles in the hands and forearms. This is important for tasks such as grasping a pencil, buttoning a shirt, and tying shoelaces.
- Improves dexterity: Playdough activities can help children to develop the small motor skills they need to perform tasks such as picking up small objects and manipulating tools.
- Enhances coordination: Rolling playdough into snakes, flattening it into shapes, and using cookie cutters all require coordination between the hands and eyes.
- Provides sensory input: Playdough can be a great way for children to explore different textures and sensations. This can be helpful for children who have sensory processing difficulties.
- Promotes creativity: Playdough allows children to use their imaginations and create anything they can think of. This can be a great way for them to express themselves and learn new things.
Making Playdough is Easy!
In addition to the benefits listed above, making playdough at home is a great way to bond with your child and create a fun sensory experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup salt
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- Food coloring (optional)
Tools:
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kettle or pot for boiling water
- Airtight containers
Instructions:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before starting.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of salt, and 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Mix well with a wooden spoon.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Carefully add 1 1/2 cups of boiling water to the dry mixture. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. If you want colored playdough, add a few drops of food coloring to the boiling water before mixing it in.
Step 4: Mix Until Smooth
Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until it forms a smooth dough. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Allow the dough to cool slightly, then knead it on a flat surface until smooth and pliable.
Step 6: Store the Playdough
Store the playdough in airtight containers to keep it fresh. You can divide it into smaller portions and add different colors to each if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Your homemade playdough is ready for playtime! Enjoy creating shapes, figures, and anything your imagination can conjure.
Tips:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- You can add a few drops of essential oil to the dough for a pleasant scent.
- Get creative with your playdough! There are endless possibilities for what you can create.
Conclusion
Making playdough at home is a fun and easy activity that can benefit children of all ages. This mouldable clay can be a valuable tool for occupational therapy, and it’s also a great way to keep kids entertained and engaged. So next time you’re looking for a fun activity to do with your child, why not try making some playdough?
For more information on our Occupational Therapy (OT) services, click here.