Disclaimer: Devoted Grandma is reader-supported. If you purchase anything through my site, I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you). Thank you.
The smell of fall is my favorite, and, as you have probably already guessed, I incorporate it into as much as I can during these fleeting months. Thankfully, my love of rich and warm scents has rubbed off onto my grandkids, so they, too, enjoy all things apple and cinnamon.
Feed your love of fall smells – and your grandchild(s) love of sensory experiences – by making and hosting this festive fall-scented Playdough party!
Supplies:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of salt
- 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- Food coloring (orange, brown, red, yellow, etc.)
- Fall essential oils or extracts like cinnamon, apple, pumpkin spice, or vanilla
- Glitter (optional, for a bit of sparkle!)
- Cookie cutters in fall shapes (like leaves, pumpkins, or apples)
- Storage containers or Ziploc bags
1. Make your Playdough mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cream of tartar. Next, pour in the vegetable oil and mix it in with the dry ingredients.
2. Color it up
Before adding the boiling water, decide on the number of colors you’d like. If you’re going for multiple colors, divide the dry mixture into separate bowls. Add a few drops of food coloring to your boiling water and then pour it into one of the bowls, stirring quickly. Repeat with different colors for the other bowls.
3. Make it scent-sational!
Once your playdough has formed (it’ll be warm to the touch), knead it on a floured surface until smooth. Now, make a small indent in your dough, add 2-3 drops of your chosen autumnal essential oil or extract, and knead again to spread the scent throughout.
4. Glitter time
If you’re opting for a little sparkle in your playdough, now’s the time to sprinkle in some glitter and knead it in. It’ll mimic the look of frost on autumn leaves!
5. Playtime!
Lay out the Playdough and let the creativity flow. Use cookie cutters to make fall shapes, or just let your grandkids’ imaginations run wild. Since every great party has great food, you will want to pair the Playdough with these apple and/or pumpkin treats.
6. Storage
After the fun is done, store the playdough in airtight containers or Ziploc bags to keep it fresh for next time. If it dries out over time, you can always add a touch of water and knead it to bring it back to life.
Conclusion
As a heads up: You, too, grandma, may find yourself playing with this delightful homemade dough. (Don’t worry – your fellow Devoted Grandmas will not judge!) Have fun – and let’s talk again soon. 🙂
