You can create all kinds of art with these easy to make modeling doughs.

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.

Another Play Clay Recipe:

Materials:

• 2 cups of flour
• 1 cup of salt
• 1 cup of water
• 1 teaspoon oil (optional)

Directions:

• Combine and mix all ingredients and store in an air-tight container.

Keep in mind that toddlers might be tempted to eat the clay, so if there's a chance they may be around, it may be better to lower the salt content.

Note: Some children like to make "things" with the modeling dough, but others just like the feel of it. Some children may just want to play with the dough and not make anything. Even then, they're getting lots of experiences out of it -- understanding about texture and different forms that they are creating. They're also experiencing how things can be reshaped and become something else, which can help them learn about flexibility and the power of their imagination.

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