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As a child, the kitchen was my playground, especially during the holidays when I helped my mother make special holiday treats like Reindeer Scotcheroos and even experimenting with playdough recipes. I abosuletly loved the time that I spent with her and now I get to do it with my kids.
There is nothing better than unleasing the warmth and coziness of the holiday season with our homemade gingerbread-scented playdough – a delightful DIY activity that engages the senses and sparks creativity in children. Crafting this aromatic playdough is not only a sensory treat but also an opportunity for kids to explore their artistic side. Encourage them to create shapes or even us as a time to practice using cookie cutters. Either way your little one will have a blast!
For this particular creation, I took inspiration from my mother's classic playdough recipe but decided to infuse a seasonal twist, resulting in the delightful Gingerbread Scented Playdough. The playdough not only exudes the irresistible scent of gingerbread but also boasts a rich brown color achieved by using common seasonings readily available at the grocery store.
Our homemade gingerbread-scented playdough is a charming DIY endeavor that not only captivates the senses but also ignites the creative spark in children. Beyond its aromatic allure, this playdough becomes a canvas for young artists, encouraging them to sculpt various shapes or even practice using cookie cutters. Whether crafting imaginative scenes or perfecting their fine motor skills, your little one is sure to have a blast in this sensory and artistic adventure!
Gingerbread Scented Playdough Recipe
Ingredients:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup salt
2 tablespoons cream of tartar
1 tablespoons ground ginger
1/3 cup ground cinnamon
2 tablespoon ground cloves
2 cups boiling water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, cream of tartar, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
Pro Tip: This presents a fantastic opportunity for your little ones to practice their kitchen skills. The forgiving nature of this Gingerbread Scented Playdough recipe allows room for error, making it a great learning experience. Even if the measurements are a tad off, the dough is likely to turn out just fine. Share the trick of getting an exact cup of flour by slightly overfilling the cup and using a butter knife to level off the excess – a handy kitchen tip!
Step 2: Add Boiling Water & Oil
Ensure an adult presence while completing this step. Begin by adding the boiling water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture diligently until a cohesive dough starts to form. The use of boiling water demands caution, an adult completing this step is crucial to maintain safety throughout this process.
Step 3: Knead
After allowing the Gingerbread Scented playdough to cool slightly but while it is still warm, take the opportunity to knead the dough until it achieves a smooth and pliable consistency. This step is crucial in ensuring the playdough's uniform texture and ideal playtime experience. Allow the playdough to cool before presenting it to the little ones.
Sensory Play with Gingerbread Magic:
Once your gingerbread-scented playdough is ready, let the kids dive into a world of imaginative play. From crafting miniature gingerbread people to shaping holiday scenes, the possibilities are endless. The aromatic blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates an enchanting atmosphere, bringing the spirit of gingerbread right into your home.
Benefits of Sensory Play:
Engaging in sensory play, like exploring scented playdough, offers various developmental benefits for children. It enhances fine motor skills, encourages creativity, and provides a calming sensory experience. As they knead, mold, and shape the gingerbread-scented playdough, kids are not only having fun but also honing essential skills.
Gingerbread Playdough as a Gift:
Consider creating batches of gingerbread-scented playdough as festive gifts for friends and family. Packaged in charming containers with holiday-themed decorations, this DIY playdough becomes a thoughtful and delightful present.
How Do I Store Gingerbread Scented Playdough?
Storing homemade playdough properly ensures its longevity and continued usability. Here are some tips on how to store homemade playdough and how long it typically lasts:
Airtight Container:Â Place the playdough in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out and keeps it fresh.
Refrigeration:Â If you want to extend the playdough's life, you can store it in the refrigerator. However, be sure it's in a sealed container to avoid absorbing unwanted odors.
Avoid Moisture:Â While playdough should be stored to prevent drying, it's also important to keep it away from excessive moisture, as this can lead to mold growth.
Check for Signs of Spoilage:Â Regularly inspect the playdough for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, changes in color, or the presence of mold. If you notice any of these, it's time to discard it.
How Long Does Homemade Playdough Last?
The shelf life of homemade playdough varies depending on factors like ingredients and storage conditions. In general, well-stored playdough can last for several weeks, and refrigerated playdough can remain usable for a few months. However, always rely on visual and olfactory cues to determine its freshness and safety. If it shows signs of spoilage or becomes dry and crumbly, it's time to make a new batch.
Incorporate the joy of sensory play and the delightful aroma of gingerbread into your holiday festivities with this simple and engaging homemade playdough recipe. Watch as the kids revel in the magic of the season, creating their own gingerbread-scented wonders!
Don't miss out on the festive fun! Explore a world of creative possibilities with our other festive kids' art projects. Whether you're crafting delightful Christmas Paper Bag Puppets or cooking up some Reindeer Scotcheroos, each project is a gateway to imaginative joy and shared creativity. Discover the magic in every stroke of a paintbrush or the careful folding of paper. Our collection is brimming with delightful surprises, offering a variety of crafting experiences that cater to different interests and age groups. So, why stop here? Embark on a creative journey with your little elves and unlock the door to more artistic adventures. Your next masterpiece awaits!
