Sensory play is one of my top strategies for dealing with “difficult” days. Putting play dough (we love this play dough recipe) and rocks together was my inspired solution for a day that started with a nightmare-induced meltdown from one of the kids at 4am. Tired mom plus tired kids = we need something fun that gets us thinking in creative ways to make it through the day!
The play dough reminded me of the mud you sometimes see stuffed into old stone walls, so we built our own version with play dough instead of mud. I love that this got even six-year-old Emma using her critical thinking skills to build a stable structure – and I think it could challenge an older child as well!
Homes finished, we turned to furniture. Stones and play dough formed tables, chairs, and beds. I’m thinking next time we’ll try adding cars!
What are your favorite ways to play with play dough? Besides rocks, my kids enjoy combining play dough with googley eyes, marbles, and pattern blocks!
MaryAnne lives in Silicon Valley with her Stanford professor husband Mike and their four children. She is passionate about parenting through education, creativity, and play. Mama Smiles - Joyful Parenting is a space to share crafts, activities, and family outings that enrich lives and bring families together.
Marci says
I’m always looking for new ideas with play dough and I have a big jar of rocks that will be perfect for this. Bonus, they won’t roll away like marbles do!
Ticia says
My kids enjoy sticking random rocks and pipe cleaners in their play dough. Oh and buttons if I let them.
Jen says
I LOVE playing with play dough! :) Love how you got rocks and made houses and furniture out of it. Sounds like fun!
andie @ crayonfreckles says
oh no! early morning meltdowns are tough! here’s to a good nap time for you today! looks like their little hands were busy for a while at least!
Elisa | blissfulE says
This is great! Way to think proactively when your day started so dreadfully. That playdough looks delightfully squishy!
maryanne says
It does feel lovely! Definitely recommend the recipe :)
Natalie says
You are such a creative Mom. I don’t think creatively when I am tired at all.
crystal@growingajeweledrose says
Rosie doesn’t seem too into play dough. I need to try adding rocks to it. I think that would surly peak her interest!
Jenny says
That’s a neat idea.
sherri says
I’m sleep deprived…maybe i will break out the play dough and rocks for myself! :)
You always come up with the best ideas!
Shannon Niebuhr says
I love this combination of textures, but even more I love your application of the materials to “making a stable structure.” What a way to get the kids noticing walls all around them!
maryanne says
Thank you, Shannon!