Sensory Activity: Cloud Dough:

We know that young children love engaging in sensory experiences, but the reason to include sensory play is more than just for enjoyment. Sensory play provides opportunities for children to discover the world around them. Through play children explore, observe, predict, test and make conclusions during sensory activities, or in other words, children inadvertently work through the scientific method! Furthermore sensory play can help build neural connections, provide rich opportunities for language development, and build fine and gross motor skills. Thinking about this, it is evident as to why sensory play should be incorporated as often as possible in our early years programs. 

Considering this, for the month of May, we will be providing sensory play ideas you can incorporate into your early years education setting. Even early primary school children would enjoy and benefit from these sensory activities! 

For this week, we will focus on Cloud Dough

Cloud Dough is a simple low cost recipe that can easily involve children in the making of it as well. To make cloud dough you need:

• 1 cup of corn flour (or corn starch, or tapioca starch for any children with corn sensitivities) 

• ½ cup of conditioner

• Food dye (optional)

Combine all ingredients together in a bowl, first with a spoon, then kneed by hand. Once combined this dough will be soft and fragrant. 

Some notes to consider when making cloud dough include:

1. Try to avoid using kitchen utensils and bowls when making this dough as the smell of the conditioner can remain in the plastic for some time! This smell/ taste can then transfer to your cooking. 

2. Keep the dough covered in cling wrap in between uses to avoid it drying out. 

This sensory activity is a great alternative to play dough as its smell and texture are quite different. However it is important to note that cloud dough is not a great activity for children who are still mouthing, as the conditioner is usually not safe to eat. 

Have you ever made and used cloud dough before? What are your tips or activity ideas you can share with our team?