Benefits of Play Dough for Kids

If you have been to one of our art classes or know me personally you know my love for playdough runs deep. There is something about playdough that is nostalgic and magical. It transports me back to my childhood home and brings back

 It’s hours of endless open-ended fun. Squishing, squashing, rolling, playing + creating. Over the years I have had dining room tables full of pasta, bugs, fairy gardens and cookies. It is an art supply that brings people together and fosters a sense of community. Think of the action the play dough table gets in a preschool classroom.

Here is my short list of the benefits of playing with play dough:

• It supports their independence and self esteem – it’s THEIR creation!

• It nurtures creativity and imagination.

•  It develops their fine motor skills.

• It calms and soothes – all that squishing and squashing and rolling relieves stress.

•  It improves their social skills. It’s a GREAT wait to play together or side by side!

I can hear some of you. “it’s just SO messy!” I know but please hear me out. The benefits outweigh the mess. Trust me. So how do we deal with that:

• Designate a play dough playing space.

• Have it out for the WHOLE DAY.

•  My kids usually want to keep one of their small creations so have a plate handy so it can dry out.

• At clean up time have your kiddos help you! Make it fun.  

• My advice for cleaning the mess comes from my Mom. Clean it up at the end of the day after the kiddos are in bed. It will be dry and so much easier to vacuum up.

• Your kids will thank you. You might even benefit from it too. 😊

And if you are looking to purchase one of our premade kits, please check out our shop.