It's a fact that kids love to play with sand. It's also a fact they love to play with the expensive magic sand that you can buy at the toy store. I have to admit, I enjoy playing with it too, but I'd enjoy it a lot more if I didn't have to pay the high prices!
Making it at home is easy and inexpensive. I came across a recipe and adapted it so that it comes out just the way my kids like it! It isn't exactly like the store-bought kind, but it is a close second. Best of all, the ingredients are 100% edible (not too tasty though), which makes it safe for curious toddlers to play with.
WHAT YOU NEED
- 4-5 c. flour
- 1 c. cooking oil
- 1-2 tsp food coloring
- tea tree oil (optional, for antibacterial properties)
HOW TO:
- Whisk oil and food coloring together in a bowl.
- Add two cups of flour and mix well. You can also use a mixer.
- Add flour 1/2 cup at a time until mixed thoroughly, until you reach your desired texture. I like it when it sticks together in a ball but still crumbles when squished.
- Store in a shoebox-size plastic container.
TIPS:
- We like to play with this outside on the deck for easy cleanup, or on cooler days place a sheet on the floor while playing.
- The more the dough is played with the better the texture becomes.
