How to Make Safe Homemade Play-dough

Back when the world was sheltering in place (whether we agreed with it or not), children and adults were growing restless.  As both a mom of little ones, and someone who struggles with anxiety and depression, I had been tirelessly searching for ways to keep my children entertained- and myself sane. 

Insert my unashamed Pinterest pitch; In the few hours that I don’t have three tiny humans clinging to me, asking for more snacks, or needing a butt to be wiped, you can find me exhaustively scrolling Pinterest for fun ideas and inspiration (home decor, fitness routines, cute tees, type 4 quotes, healthy recipes, essential oil combos, good books to read, pretty scripture quotes – just to name a few 😉 ). Honestly, we probably make about 30% of what I pin.

So I was really excited when I found a homemade play dough recipe that I was able to (ever so slightly) tweak and make SAFE for both Andy (3 at the time) AND Emma (1 then).  

In the sea of homemade play dough made with baby oil or other potentially toxic ingredients, this particular recipe was made with real ingredients I already cook with – ensuring that even my little tubby could participate in this activity (don’t you just love the “put everything in mouth” season).  

Now, almost two years later, the restlessness is in full swing as the weather anticipates the midwest’s shift in seasons.  This time I am also trying to keep the attention of three little minds, not two.

Having worked with some amazing special education therapists, I am well aware of the benefits of sensory play, so I decided to bring out and share this tried and true recipe.  

As winter break approaches, I thought this could be useful for the days when even the most calm kids get a little stir crazy, or need a boredom buster, or want to try a new science experiment for homeschool.  Whatever the reason, I promise your kids will love this.

NOTES

Before you jump to the recipe, I wanted to share a little bit about why and which essential oils we added into our playdough.

• This makes the play-dough smell amazing 
• Certain oils can aid in anxiety relief
• Therapeutic benefits of sensory stimulation

Here are the oils we choose and why:

1. Lavender: Lavender oil has been used and cherished for centuries for its unmistakable aroma and myriad benefits. In ancient times, the Egyptians and Romans used Lavender for bathing, relaxation, cooking, and as a perfume. Its calming and relaxing qualities, when taken internally, continue to be Lavender’s most notable attributes. Applied topically, Lavender oil is frequently used to reduce the appearance of skin imperfections. Add to bath water to soak away stress or apply to the temples and the back of the neck. Add a few drops of Lavender oil to pillows, bedding, or bottoms of feet to relax and prepare for a restful night’s sleep. Due to Lavender’s versatile properties, it is considered the must-have oil to have on hand at all times.
2. Balance: The warm, woody aroma of doTERRA Balance Grounding Blend creates a refreshing environment. We perfectly blend Spruce, Ho Wood, Frankincense, Blue Tansy, and Blue Chamomile with Fractionated Coconut Oil to offer an enticing fragrance that creates a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. Spruce, one of the oils in doTERRA Balance, was used by Native Americans for health and spiritual reasons and is still used today to bring harmony to the mind and body.
3. On Guard: doTERRA On Guard, a proprietary essential oil blend, provides a natural and effective alternative for immune support when used internally.* As one of doTERRA’s best-selling blends, doTERRA On Guard protects against environmental and seasonal threats with essential oils known for their positive effects on the immune system when ingested.* doTERRA On Guard can be taken internally on a daily basis to maintain healthy immune function.* It can also be used on surfaces throughout the home as a non-toxic cleaner. When diffused, doTERRA On Guard helps purify the air, and can be very energizing and uplifting.
4. Lemon: The top-selling doTERRA essential oil, Lemon has multiple benefits and uses. Lemon is a powerful cleansing agent that purifies the air and surfaces, and can be used as a non-toxic cleaner throughout the home. When added to water, Lemon provides a refreshing and healthy boost throughout the day.* Lemon is frequently added to food to enhance the flavor of desserts and main dishes. Taken internally, Lemon provides cleansing and digestive benefits.* When diffused, Lemon has an uplifting aroma.
5. Peppermint: The peppermint plant is a hybrid of water mint and spearmint and was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. A high menthol content—like that found in the doTERRA Peppermint essential oil—distinguishes the best quality Peppermint oil from other products. Frequently used in toothpaste and chewing gum for oral hygiene, Peppermint oil also helps alleviate occasional stomach upset and promotes healthy respiratory function when taken internally.* Peppermint oil continues to be one of the best-selling favorites among doTERRA essential oils.

There really are so many oils that house so many benefits; if you want to learn more, click here to join my naturally well community where we talk about the benefits of different oils & so much more. You can also learn more about living naturally well by visiting my health & wellness posts.

REVIEW

This is not an exaggeration: my kids sat still for more than an hour as we played, formed, and created with our favorite activity.  We added colors to match our scents and enjoyed the therapeutic benefits of all the sensory stimulation we were getting! If you want to add non toxic, all natural food coloring, I suggest checking out these kitchen hacks.

One of my favorite aspects of making this is the shelf life!  The fun can continue for the next couple weeks!  We keep our play dough stored in an airtight container – preserving both the texture and sweet smells!! 

In conclusion, If you are looking for a way to calm the kids, have some fun, stimulate the senses, or relieve stress of your own (I don’t know who got more out of this  – me or the kids), then this is for you!  

Try it out and make sure to comment and let me know how it goes!!

HOMEMADE PLAY-DOUGH INGREDIENTS

• 1 C. Al Purpose Flour
• 1/2 C. Salt
• 2 TBSP. Cream of Tartar
• 1 C. Water
• 2 TBSP. Coconut Oil
• natural dye
• Essential oils (optional)
• Gloves (optional for kneading in dye)

HOMEMADE PLAY-DOUGH DIRECTIONS

1. Combine flour, salt, and cream of tartar in a saucepan.
2. Slowly stir in water and oil.
3. Cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, until the dough begins to thicken.
4. Once the dough forms a ball, remove from heat.
5. When the dough is cool enough to touch, take out of saucepan & knead until it’s smooth.
6. Divide the dough into balls for how many colors you want to make.
7. Add a few drops of your homemade natural dye to each ball. (You might want to use gloves to keep the dye from staining your skin.)
   NOTE: If you don’t have enough time to make your own, this is a good natural dye to use.
8. Knead the dough again to mix in the color. (You might want to use gloves to keep the dye from staining your skin.)
9. If desired, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils.
10. Store the dough in an airtight container or bag to help it stay fresh.