Play dough inspiration

Playing outdoors is terrific; however playing  indoors can be a valuable time too.  Just this morning my boys and I were doing play dough when I realized they were making things from the natural world.  Of course, it started with volcanoes, and we discussed the volcanoes that can be found here in Washington State.  Then we went on to making animals, discussing their habitats and talking about their body parts. This kind of play is so VOCABULARY enriching and fun too!

I think part of the reason todays explorations went so nature-focused was was because I added some mint smelling green playdough to the Halloween orange that a neighbor had made.  I think color can make a difference.  

At the class I was in this past weekend people shared other home made "playdough" ideas,

Incorporate dirt/ coffee grinds/ flower petals or seeds into the dough

Add a color

Add a scent, pumpkin, peppermint, or lavender

I haven't looked for these recipes yet but I know they are out there!