Commercial playdough is loaded with strong dyes that can stain carpet and clothing. Replaceing the playdough every few months really adds up and a few tiny pieces on the floor are visible from a mile away and stick like glue.
I like home-made playdough because:
- it doesn't stain
- it's super washable off fancy sunday outfits
- it sweeps or vacuums up easily
- it's non-toxic and edible (although it tastes yucky)
Here is my favorite recipe:
Measure 2 c boiling water and pour in a large bowl. Stir in 1/2 c salt until it's dissolved. Add 2 pkgs Kool-Aid* drink powder, 3 tbsp vegetable oil and 2 tbsp alum. Stir until combined. Then, adding 1/2 c flour at a time, add 2-3 cup flour to the hot water. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth ball of dough. You will need to get your hands in there at the end. Kneed the warm dough to smooth out any remaining lumps. Store in a sealed container. Refridgeration is NOT neccessary. Playdough will last 2-5 months depending upon how heavily it's used.
* it's got to be Kool-Aid! Cheap drink powders make crumbly playdough that dries out too easily.
Playdough Rules: keep it simple. Here are the rules that work for me. Repeat them to the children each time you bring out the playdough. Remember kids,
1) playdough stays ON the table 2) playdough is NOT a snack!
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