With fall and cooler temperatures finally here, we are on pumpkin spice overload. Everywhere you turn you see products and food that are pumpkin spice scented or flavored. That got us thinking… what if we put a twist on a basic homemade play dough recipe to make it ready for fall? Pumpkin spice play dough is easy to make, smells just like fall and gets everyone in the mood for all that this time of year brings.
Worth the mess
Let’s be honest… you are either a play dough mom or you aren’t. Sometimes, just the thought of the messes play dough can create are enough to make us keep it stored away. While we don’t pull ours out nearly enough, every time we do, the kids all love it and there is no arguing the numerous play benefits it offers kids. It is a great sensory activity for children involving their sight, smell and touch. Playing with play dough also helps develop their fine motor skills and strengthens their creativity, as well as being a very soothing and therapeutic activity for children. Besides all of that, it’s just plain fun for them!
Homemade pumpkin spice play dough
Ingredients:
1 Cup Salt
2 Cups Flour
2 Cups Water
1 Tbsp. Cream of Tartar
2 Tbsp. Vegetable Oil
2 Tbsp. Pumpkin Pie Spice
Food Coloring
Directions:
1. Combine all ingredients (except food coloring) in a medium saucepan.
2. Over medium heat, stir all ingredients until a large ball forms, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool until the dough can be kneaded by hand.
4. Divide the dough if you would like to make multiple colors.
5. On a floured surface or waxed paper, knead a few drops of food coloring into the dough until the desired color is achieved.
6. Store in airtight container.
Fall fun with pumpkin spice play dough
While most kids can come up with plenty of ways to play with play dough just on its own, there are lots of ways to help encourage creativity and exploration. Pull out cookie cutters shaped like pumpkins, leaves and acorns to let your kids create all sorts of fall shapes! Give them rolling pins, cookie sheets or muffin tins to mold their play dough into an imaginative baking session. Take a nature walk in your yard to gather items like leaves, pebbles, acorns or small sticks to press into the dough for an even more tactile experience. The possibilities are endless and this pumpkin spice play dough will be certain to create lots of entertainment as your kids explore, play and get creative!