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Kitchen Crafts

© Susan Franklin

The kitchen is a great place to learn through the sense of touch as well as participate in a myriad of other kitchen lessons. Here is a collection of craft recipes appropriate for pre-schoolers, most of which are non-toxic or edible, and some of which both taste and smell good. You can use these recipes to discover and learn about the senses while having fun. These should save you money and give you more ways to keep little ones busy having fun while learning in the kitchen with mom.

NUMMY EDIBLE PLAY DOUGH

You will need:
2/3 cup Margarine
2/3 cup Light corn syrup
1 tsp Salt
2 tsp Vanilla extract
2 lb Powdered sugar
Food coloring (optional)

Combine the margarine, corn syrup, salt and vanilla extract. Add powdered sugar. Knead dough until it has the right consistency. Divide and add food coloring. This is a large batch suitable for a small group of preschoolers in a play group or party. Be sure to keep this refrigerated.

NUTTY BUTTER PLAY DOUGH

You will need:
1 C. Peanut butter
1 C. Powdered Milk
1 C. Honey
1 C. Oatmeal

Mix all ingredients together and punch, play squeeze, and mold it.

FLOUR-BASED PLAY DOUGH

You will need:
2 cups flour
1 cup salt
½ cup water
1 tsp. vinegar
food coloring
¼ tsp. peppermint extract.

In a large bowl, cimbine the flour and salt. Slowly add the water and vinegar, stirring with a wooden spoon until a stiff mixture forms. Then knead the ball of dough on a smooth surface until it is pliable.

Divide the dough into separate pieces for each color you wish to make. Make a large indentation with your finger or the end of the wooden spoon in the center of each dough section. Drop in the food coloring and peppermint extract. Knead until color is mixed completely and the dough is smooth.

BUBBLE LIQUID

You will need:
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup dishwashing liquid
Vegetable cooking oil

Combine the water and dish soap. Then add a splash of vegetable oil to add firmness to the bubbles.

NO-COOK FINGER PAINT

You will need:
1/2 cup liquid starch
1/2 cup soap powder
5/8 cup water

Beat ingredients together until they resemble the consistency of whipped potatoes

COOKED FINGERPAINT

You will need:
2 cups flour
4 cups cold water
food coloring or dry tempera paint

1. Combine the flour and water and cook over low heat until thickened
2. Remove from burner and cool
3. Add a pinch of salt
4. Add dry tempera or food coloring, if desired

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