I picked up these beautiful Strawflowers from the local farmers market specifically becuase they last so long and dry so beautifully. Most importantly they can be reused for many invitations, sensory bottles, art, and more!
The invitation was set with Colorations Textured Rolling Pins that have 4 different textured patterns. The textures that come from the pins enhance the sensory play. You can make the Play-dough with the recipe below or use store-bought. Lastly, the dried Strawflowers were scattered loosely all around the tray to explore.
Since my son loves tearing things apart, I let him take apart the flowers, then I guided and helped him roll in and bind the petals in the play-dough. This was a great way to practice fine motor skills all while exploring natural sensory materials.
Play-dough is a staple in early childhood education. It is a powerful way to let a child use their imagination, strengthen the small muscles in their fingers, and encourage a chil's language +literacy, science, math and sensory skills. It is quite possibly one of most powerful props for learning.
Play Dough Recipe:
2 Cups of Flour
2 Cups of Salt
2 Cups of Water (add food coloring or liquid water colors to create the color desired)
2 TBSP Cream of Tartar
2 TBSP Oil
Heat a non stick pan to very low, pour flour, salt, water, cream of tartar, and oil on the pan all together. A little trick we do for the color to evenly disperse is add the Liquid Water Colors or Food Coloring to the water prior to putting it in the pan. Continue to mix the ingredients until it hardens. Typically 4-5 minutes. Remove from pan and roll the play dough around on a cutting board until it cools down. Store in Tupperware or a Ziplock Bag and enjoy!
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