I’m a mom who isn’t afraid of screen time. We watch everything from old-school Disney movies to our favorite YouTube show, Outdoor Boys. But some days the kids and I need a TV break. One of our favorite activities during those times is Play-Doh! What better time to join in the dough fun than on National Play-Doh Day on September 16th!
As a former educator, I love the creativity and versatility that come with using Play-Doh. With so many tools to use and avenues to explore, it provides endless possibilities for play. We build neighborhoods, cook up a restaurant feast, learn sight words, and so much more with Play-Doh. However, given how much our Play-Doh is used, I find it wears out rather quickly, even when taken care of properly. Buying new tubs of it every month just isn’t in the budget anymore. So I’ve found a cheap and easy way to make it at home that doesn’t require using the stove or tons of odd ingredients. The kids love to help make it, too!
Here is our simple homemade Play-Doh recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 cup flour
- 2 Tablespoons oil
- 1/2 cup salt
- 1/2 cup water
- mix-ins as desired
Method
Combine the flour, salt, and oil in a bowl until well combined. Gradually add water while stirring. Add mix-ins and knead until it reaches Play-Doh consistency. Store in a food storage container or a plastic bag.
I love to add in essential oils or spices to give the dough a fun scent to go along with a theme or season. Some favorites are peppermint and pine oils for winter, cinnamon and allspice for fall, and floral oils for spring and summer (we’ve also even added dried petals with that one)!
While we try our best to be conscious of food dyes in our home, for this dough, I usually just use the cheap food coloring to give it vibrancy. The dye-free versions do offer pretty muted colors, though! We also try to avoid glitter at all costs, but that makes another fun add-in! With my youngest, who tends to put everything in her mouth, I love that this dough recipe is taste-safe, so I am conscious of the mix-ins for her, too.
Homemade dough is such a great way to engage kids in both independent and group play. While all of my children have vastly different personalities and interests, Play-Doh is one way they love to play together (usually) without drama! I sometimes take part, and other times I choose the sittervise option during dough play.
Fun fact: Did you know Play-Doh was originally invented as a wallpaper cleaner? I’m glad I have this clean and nearly effortless dough recipe in my mom’s toolbox now! I hope you’ll jump aboard the homemade Play-Doh train to celebrate National Play-Doh Day on September 16th and throughout the whole year!
