Search your toolbox and catch-all drawers for raw materials to recycle for this activity, or ask parents to collect materials for the class. Children are fascinated with the feel of different textures and the look of different shapes. That's why "junk" drawers, with their bits and pieces of hardware and other things, are full of treasures for this kind of creative play.

Materials:

• Popsicle sticks, tongue depressors
• Straws and or plastic spoons
• Screws, nuts, and bolts
• Modeling dough (*see recipe below)

Directions:

Offer children the opportunity to create a sculpture using the raw materials collected. Display the finished products around the room, and then send them home with the children. If you plan to hang the sculptures on the wall remember to put a paper clip on the back in the soft clay before it hardens.

Modeling Dough Recipe

Materials:

• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup salt
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 cup of water
• A few drops of food coloring (optional)
• 1 tablespoon oil

Directions:

• Mix the flour, salt, and cream of tartar in a small bowl.
• In a separate bowl, mix the liquids. Use the food coloring to mix your own colors.
• Combine the two mixtures and cook on medium to low heat, stirring until the combination is the consistency of mashed potatoes.
• When the mixture is cool, knead it a little. Store in a covered container.

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