Let's Play Dough!

So the other day, the little ones were bored and I was trying to think of something for them to do that would keep them out of their daddy's hair.  He was trying to paint some panels on the car, and they wanted to be outside, but couldn't because of the painting.  So we made play dough.  I don't know about you, but I can always use a little more dough in my life!

It really is a kid friendly activity, although I must admit, usually messier than I would ideally like it to be.  The kids have fun measuring out the dry ingredients, but you really have to take over when its time for the boiling water.

So, here is the World's Best Play-Dough recipe:

2 cups flour
1 cup salt
4 tsp of Cream of Tartar
2 cups boiling water
2 tbsp oil
2 packages of small unsweetend Kool Aid (we like orange, or grape)

First, mix all of the dry ingredients together.  This is the kid part, and if you do it right, both you, your kitchen and your children will be covered in flour.  This is the best part from the kids point of view.

Next, in a big glass bowl, microwave 2 cups of water until boiling.  This, of course, is the non kid part.  Add the oil and the Kool Aid, stiring until dissolved.  Then while the water is hot, add it to the flour mixture, stirring like a wild woman.  Dough will be sticky and hot as all get out.  Add extra flour as needed if the dough is too sticky to handle.  When you can stand to touch the dough, knead it on a floured surface for a few minutes until you have made a large ball of dough that has a good "play" consistency.  Let the dough cool before giving it to the kids to play with.

Jr's Big Grape Ball

I have been using this recipe since Alicia was 3 and a preschool teacher gave it to me.  It is great because it is quick and easy to make.  We have made this for birthday parties, play dates, and sleep overs.  It makes enough for 4-5 kids to play with at a time, and is probably equal to about 5 cans of regular play dough.  I love it because the Kool Aid makes it smell wonderful.  Anyhow, give it a try if you have little ones.  Blessings to you all, and many happy play dough creations.