Playdough

April 30, 2020  |   Chemistry, Art, Making


Mixing matter to create something moldable makes science more fun.

Michelle Miner combines all the materials you need for creative fun with a dash of chemistry thrown in to make the Amazeum's special brand of Playdough. 

Materials | Supplies

  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • measuring spoons and cups
  • ingredients:
    • 2 cups flour
    • 1/2 cup salt
    • 2 tablespoons cream of tartar or alum
    • 1/4 cup vegetable, canola, coconut, or olive oil
    • 1 cup hot water
    • powdered drink mix (optional)
    • food coloring (optional)

Concepts Explored

  • fine motor skills
  • measurement
  • following instructions
  • mixtures
  • chemistry

Discovery Starters

How could you change the texture of the playdough?

If you add more of less of an ingredient, will the playdough change?

What can you shape from your playdough? 

Why is the order of adding ingredients important? 

Explore Further

What happens when your playdough is left in the sun? Why?

Press your playdough on different surfaces then gently pull it off. What do you notice?

Press objects into your playdough, what happens?

Explore printing by drawing or pressing items into flattened playdough then rubbing a marker on the design and pressing the playdough on paper. 

Additional Resources

Smart Parent Advice: Benefits of Playing with Playdough

Happy Mothering website : Moon Sand

Pre-Kinders website: Play Dough Ideas

Kids Spot website: Play Dough Jewelry

Amazeum YOU Playdough Activity Guide

Amazeum YOU Sensory Bins and Tiny Tools

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