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Christmas

Candy Cane Playdough Tray

December 19, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

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If you need a quick activity to do with the children in your life, this candy cane playdough tray has got you covered. A lovely peppermint smell wafting through the air is a highlight of this playdough invitation.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Making The Candy Cane Playdough

A simple no-cook homemade playdough recipe is the base for this activity. I love the recipe featured on The Artful Parent website and use it regularly. It is easy and quick to make and keeps about as well as the cooked version.

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Next, knead in crushed candy cane bits. The playdough is ready to use. So easy!

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Or, give participants the creamy white playdough and sprinkle candy cane bits on the table. Invite everyone to blend crushed candy cane bits into their playdough. They will love seeing the playdough change colors as the candy cane pieces are kneaded in.

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Note: Some of the crushed candy cane bits appear a little sharp. They didn’t poke or irritate my skin while testing out the festive dough. When I offered this playdough invitation to staff and students, they thoroughly enjoyed it.

The more candy cane pieces that are added, the more colorful the playdough will become. And it may be a little mushy when used again on another day. If you would like the playdough to have a second or third use, be a little sparing in adding crushed candy cane bits to the white dough.

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Crushing Candy Canes for the Playdough

You can crush candy canes for this play invitation if you do not have ready-to-use crushed ones on hand.

Just stick candy canes in the freezer for about twenty minutes. Then place them in a sealed Ziplock bag and smash them on a cutting board with a mallet, rolling pin, or meat pounder. Another method is to break candy canes into small pieces after taking them out of the freezer and then grind them to the desired coarseness in a coffee grinder. Children would love to get in on the candy cane crushing.

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The Candy Cane Playdough Tray

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Offer a rolling pin, disposable knife, and a few Christmas cookie cutters to participants exploring candy cane playdough. Here are some accessories to consider adding:

  • non-breakable candy cane and gingerbread decorations
  • candy cane cookie cutters
  • green, red, and white buttons and pony beads
  • peppermint candy and gingerbread man erasers

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More Christmas Playdough Activities

Christmas Playdough

Santa Claus Playdough Tray

Orange-Scented Playdough Invitation

Gingerbread Playdough

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[Read more…] about Candy Cane Playdough Tray

Filed Under: Christmas, playdough, preschool, sensory Tagged With: candy canes, Christmas, playdough, scented playdough, sensory play

Orange-Scented Playdough Invitation

January 14, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

This orange-scented playdough invitation includes many scents and is perfect for Christmas or Chinese New Year celebrations.
This orange-scented playdough invitation includes many scents and is perfect for Christmas or Chinese New Year celebrations.

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This orange-scented playdough invitation introduces early learners to scents and colors that work with current festivities. The activity is a good fit for Christmas and carries over to Lunar New Year celebrations.

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Oranges And Christmas

Oranges have been part of Christmas traditions for many years. Here are some ways they were incorporated into the festive holiday season in times past:

  • In pioneer days, oranges were rare. As such, they were prized stocking stuffers.
  • Sliced oranges were used in natural decorations, such as wreaths, garlands, and tree ornaments.
  • Oranges were made into deliciously scented clove-studded pomanders that were displayed in Christmas décor afterward.
Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise add fun to an orange-scented playdough invitation.

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Today, oranges are still popular in Christmas decorating projects. And people are encouraged to eat the nutrient-rich, vitamin C-packed fruit to ward off a cold or flu.

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Oranges And The Lunar New Year

Mandarin oranges, preferably with a stem and a few leaves attached, are given as gifts and used in decorating during Lunar New Year celebrations. They symbolize happiness, good luck, wealth, longevity, and fertility.

Mandarin oranges with stems and leaves attached indicate freshness and represent wishes for long life and fertility in Chinese New Year celebrations.

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Spices such as star anise, cloves, and cinnamon are native to parts of Asia. And these three spices are also part of Chinese five spice powder, a spice used to season many Asian dishes.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Orange-Scented Playdough Recipe

The orange jello in this recipe gives the dough a lovely citrus scent and a bright orange color.

For the playdough, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup salt
  • 4 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • 2 3 oz / 85-gram packages of orange jello powder
  • 2 cups water
  • 3 tablespoons oil

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How To Make Orange-Scented Playdough

An easy-to-make orange-scented orange playdough recipe showcased with loose parts early learners will love to explore.

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To make this soft, cooked playdough recipe, add the first three ingredients to a sturdy pot and mix them together.

Stir in two 3 oz/85 gram packages of orange jello powder into two cups of boiled water. Then stir in 2 tablespoons oil.

Add the fruity liquid to the dry ingredients and combine.

Heat on the stove on medium heat.

Stirring frequently, cook until the mixture is no longer glossy and the dough forms a ball.

Place the dough on a cutting board.

Knead when cool and add one more tablespoon of oil.

Wrap the playdough in saran wrap and place it in a sealed plastic bag to store it.

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The Orange-Scented Playdough Invitation

This orange-scented playdough invitation includes many scents and is perfect for Christmas or Chinese New Year celebrations.

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For a traditional vibe, offer the orange playdough on a tray with the following:

  • cinnamon sticks
  • star anise pods
  • whole cloves
  • ribbon
  • mandarin orange leaves and stems
  • tree sprigs
  • pine cones

The star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and grated orange rind add additional scents for children to experience when using the playdough supplies. They contribute to the cultural vibes of the play invitation.

Tip: Show a few samples of pomanders and Christmas decorations using dried oranges before offering this playdough invitation to inspire creativity. Or display a miniature orange tree and/or oranges with stems and leaves attached for early learners to observe.

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Adding Grated Orange Rind

Grated orange rind, cloves, and cinnamon sticks add interest to an orange-scented playdough invitation.

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To extend this aromatic playdough experience, sprinkle grated orange rind near each participant’s work area. The crumbled, scented rind gives early learners a chance to incorporate a new texture into their creations.

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Orange-Scented Playdough Invitation Benefits

This orange-scented playdough invitation has many educational benefits. When using the playdough and accompanying supplies, early learners develop finger strength, important for being able to hold a pencil and use scissors. And eye-hand coordination is enhanced through making playdough creations.

An easy-to-make orange-scented orange playdough recipe showcased with loose parts early learners will love to explore.

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Below are suggestions to extend the learning potential of this playdough experience:

Language Development

Label spices and discuss their colors and shapes:

Highlight that star anise pods look like stars, whole cloves are shaped like nails, and cinnamon sticks look like tiny rolled logs.

Smell and describe the following scents:

  • the strong, sweet, licorice smell of star anise.
  • the fragrant, sweet smell of cinnamon sticks.
  • the strong, powerful smell of whole cloves.

Math Skills

Count cloves and star anise pods.

Count the points on star anise. There are usually six to eight points.

Discuss pairs: In parts of Asia, a pair of oranges is given to newlywed couples as a symbol of luck and fertility.

Creativity

Design oranges and pomanders from playdough and spices.

Incorporate natural materials in playdough designs.

Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise add fun to orange-scented playdough creations.

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Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise add fun to an orange-scented playdough invitation.

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More Playdough Recipes and Activities

Apple Playdough Tray

Edible Playdough Turkey

Scented Playdough Activities

Edible Playdough Pumpkins

Creating warty pumpkins is easy and fun with white chocolate chips and an edible, no-cook playdough recipe.

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Gingerbread Playdough

Chocolate Mint Playdough

Christmas Playdough

Santa Claus Playdough Tray

Valentine’s Day Playdough Activities

Red, pink and white playdough recipes, perfect for a Valentine's Day theme.

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St. Patrick’s Day Playdough Tray

Easter Playdough Tray

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[Read more…] about Orange-Scented Playdough Invitation

Filed Under: Chinese New Year, Christmas, playdough, preschool, sensory Tagged With: Chinese New Year, Christmas, loose parts, playdough, scented playdough

Santa Claus Sensory Bin

December 23, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

This Santa Claus sensory bin is filled with many economical dollar store supplies. It's a sure-to-please bin that can be set up in minutes.
This easy Santa Claus sensory bin is filled with many economical dollar store supplies. It's a sure-to-please bin that can be set up in minutes.

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With Santa on many children’s minds right now it’s the perfect time to set out a simple Santa Claus sensory bin.

This fun sensory activity is inspired by two Santa ornaments I was gifted this Christmas season. After receiving the ornaments, I realized I had enough supplies to make a no-fuss Santa bin. The bin is a great example of how just a few themed items can provide an interesting sensory invitation.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Supplies To Collect

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Here are the supplies I gathered for the festive bin:

  • Santa train engine cookie tin
  • Santa ornament
  • knitted Scandinavian multicultural dolls
  • fillable Santa ball ornament
  • jingle bell garland
  • peppermint candy erasers
  • Santa and Santa hat erasers
  • wooden ladle

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The Santa Claus Sensory Bin

This easy Santa sensory bin is filled with many economical dollar store supplies. It's a sure-to-please bin that can be set up in minutes.

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This jovial sensory bin has a dyed chickpea base. The chickpeas are colored with various amounts of red acrylic craft paint. You can find out how to dye chickpeas in my blog post “Chinese New Year Sensory Play.”

Note: As an alternative to using chickpeas for the base, white rice works well too.

The chickpeas are spread out in a white bus/utility tub. This size bin works well for one to three children to use.

The Santa train engine cookie tin was a happy find last year. I previously featured it in a blog post titled “Plaid-Themed Christmas Rice Bin.”

The Santa ornament fits perfectly in the train engine. I checked to make sure it has no rough edges before offering it in the bin. A small plush Santa is a good fit too.

A fillable Santa Claus ornament and other dollar store supplies make for an inviting chickpea-based sensory bin.

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The fillable Santa ball comes apart, and each half holds lots of chickpeas and loose parts.

The Scandinavian knitted dolls are cut from a Christmas garland. They make fun helpers for Santa!

Dollar stores carry metallic jingle bell garlands. Cut into strips, the garland becomes musical loose parts for the bin.

Peppermint and Santa-themed erasers add interest. They are great for counting and sorting practice.

A wooden ladle is useful for filling the Santa train and ball ornament with chickpeas, erasers, and garland. When using one, early learners get practice with eye-hand coordination.

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Making Your Own Santa Claus Sensory Bin

Would you like to make a Santa Claus-themed sensory bin? You probably have a few interesting supplies already on hand to include. Then add a few dollar store finds. It’s that simple!

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Related:

Santa Claus Playdough Tray

Santa’s Beard Scissor Activity

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More Christmas Activities

Christmas Peppermint Sensory Bin

Christmas Village Tuff Tray

Orange-scented Playdough Invitation

This orange-scented playdough invitation includes many scents and is perfect for Christmas or Chinese New Year celebrations.

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Santa Claus Sensory Bin

Chocolate Mint Playdough

Plaid-themed Christmas Rice Bin

Lemon-scented Christmas Playdough

Easy S’mores Bars

Make this easy, three-ingredient s'mores bars recipe that takes a classic campfire treat indoors. Serve surrounded by festive decor at Christmas time.

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Christmas Tree Decorating Center

Christmas Sensory Play

Handprint Angel Christmas Keepsake

Llama Christmas Sensory Bin

Llama themed sensory bin inspired by the picture book 'Llama, Llama Holiday Drama' by Anna Dewdney.
    [Read more…] about Santa Claus Sensory Bin

    Filed Under: Christmas, preschool, pretend play, sensory Tagged With: Christmas, Santa Claus, sensory bin, sensory play

    Candy Cane Science Experiment

    January 1, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    This easy-peasy candy cane science experiment shows immediate results and brings the WOW factor, perfect for little learners!
    This easy-peasy candy cane science experiment shows immediate results and brings the WOW factor, perfect for little learners!

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    This Christmas I went on a candy cane hunt, primarily to add a few of these festive treats to my preschoolers’ party bags. Although easy to find in the past, I visited three different stores before I spotted some.

    Candy canes had been brought up in class discussions, so I thought the children would be excited to discover them in their party bags. As I tried to give one child extra candy canes for his siblings, I noticed that he was furiously trying to give his original ones away. It turned out that he immensely dislikes them! So needless to say, there were a few candy canes leftover at school after the holiday celebrations.

    So then came Plan B…the decision to use some for this easy-peasy candy cane science experiment.

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    Supplies To Collect

    Gather just three supplies for an easy-to-perform candy cane or candy experiment with a WOW factor.

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    The supplies for this science experiment couldn’t be any simpler. Gather the following three things:

    • white or cream-colored dinner plate with a rim
    • cup of warm water
    • two large candy canes

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    Conducting The Candy Cane Science Experiment

    Try this candy cane Science experiment today! It is easy to do and has immediate results.

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    Place two candy canes in the center of the plate in a heart shape.

    Slowly pour in warm water to a level just beneath the plate rim.

    The food coloring will immediately diffuse from the candy canes, and the color patterns will change right before your eyes!

    This experiment can be tried with other colors of these treats. The red, pink, and white color scheme below would work perfectly for Valentine’s Day.

    This easy to perform heart-themed candy cane science experiment is perfect for Valentine's Day. Give it a try!

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    Variation Of The Candy Cane Experiment

    There was a second candy escapade this holiday season, as a type of striped, spherical, Christmas candies I purchased turned out to be much too hard. I tasted one, and it just wouldn’t dissolve in my mouth. I imagined students choking on the candy on the drive home from preschool, and didn’t want to risk that. As you might have guessed, the super hard candies didn’t make the treat bag cut.

    Conveniently, these holiday candies work in the same science experiment. In the picture below, the candies are arranged next to the rim of a plate. When warm water is added, green and red food colors slowly move through the liquid away from the candies. The process is so slow, the colors blend to make a rich brown hue soon after they spread. Since little learners love mixing colors to make brown, they would be excited to see this!

    An oh-so-easy Christmas candy science experiment. Can't you smell the candy already?

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    The candies can be placed a little farther apart around the plate rim, so the colors don’t mix as quickly when water is added.  Or they can be spread apart as in the picture below. Then moving red and green colors are visible a little while after warm water is added.

    Try this Christmas candy Science experiment today! It is easy to do and has immediate results.

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    Tip: If the colors in the candies dissolve at a snail’s pace, as in one of my experiments, you can choose to use hot water. This will speed up the scientific process. Make sure little learners observe what happens only with their eyes, keeping their hands and bodies away from the plate.

    After the science experiment is finished and the liquid is cool, you may wish to let your little charges taste a teaspoon of colored water. It will have a strong mint taste.

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    A simple Christmas candy science experiment with quick results. Can't you smell the candy already?

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    Explanation Of This Candy Cane/Candy Experiment

    The candy canes and candies are made of sugar. The water breaks the sugar molecules apart. Then the food colors move through the water from areas of higher sugar concentration (near the candy) to areas with less sugar (the center of the plate.) When the sugar concentration is the same in all areas, the colors stop moving.

    Water temperature is a variant in this experiment. Sugar dissolves quicker in warm water, and food coloring moves at a faster pace.

    This science experiment is so easy to set up and has immediate results, perfect for little learners. And participants get to use their senses of sight, smell, taste, and touch. Try it today with candies or candy canes!

    Related: Color Explosion Science Experiment

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    This easy-peasy candy cane heart science experiment shows immediate results and brings the WOW factor, perfect for little learners!

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    More Christmas Activities

    Christmas Village Tuff Tray

    Orange-scented Playdough Invitation

    Santa Claus Sensory Bin

    Chocolate Mint Playdough

    Plaid-themed Christmas Rice Bin

    Lemon-scented Christmas Playdough

    Easy S’mores Bars

    Christmas Tree Decorating Center

    Christmas Sensory Play

    Handprint Angel Christmas Keepsake

    Llama Christmas Sensory Bin

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    [Read more…] about Candy Cane Science Experiment

    Filed Under: Christmas, party, preschool, science, sensory, Valentine's Day Tagged With: candy canes, Christmas, colors, hearts, science experiment

    Plaid-Themed Christmas Rice Bin

    December 24, 2021 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    This plaid-themed Christmas rice bin is filled with cozy items for little learners to explore. A traditional bin to offer every year.
    This plaid-themed Christmas rice bin is filled with cozy items for little learners to explore. A traditional bin to offer every year.

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    Sensory bins are one of my favorite things to put together. There is a multitude of themes for bins to choose from, and so many interesting loose parts to include. Sometimes one or two items provide inspiration for a whole bin. And that’s the case with this rustic plaid-themed Christmas rice bin.

    A few years ago, I spotted plaid gift boxes at Michael’s and snapped a couple up. Right then and there I got the idea for this cozy bin. It took a while to collect enough intriguing items for little learners to explore. This year the concept finally came together.

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    Plaid-Themed Christmas Rice Bin

    The container to hold all the sensory supplies is an inexpensive spiral saucer sled!

    Glutinous rice is the base. I like it a lot because its super white color provides good contrast for the contents of the bin.  One five kg bag fills the saucer-shaped container nicely.

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    Plaid-themed Christmas items scattered over the rice are:

    • gift boxes
    • plush ornament balls
    • sheep fridge magnets
    • nutcracker soldier marionette ornament
    • cuddly bear
    • shovel ornament
    • small photo frame accented with jingle bells
    • Santa train engine cookie tin on wheels
    A delightful plaid-themed holiday rice bin filled with cozy items for little learners to explore year after year.

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    The photo frame could be personalized with a picture of a little learner.

    The bells on the frame add a musical element to the play experience, always a plus.

    The nutcracker soldier has a special feature: his legs do the splits when the attached string is pulled.

    Undoubtedly the Santa train engine cookie tin is the highlight of the holiday-themed bin.

    Cozy plaid-themed Christmas gift boxes and ornaments to fill a holiday rice bin.

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    Tip: If you try a version of this activity, make sure there are no sharp edges on the items you choose for your bin.

    Have you put together a unique sensory bin? I’d love to hear about it.

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    More Christmas Activities

    Llama Llama Holiday Drama Sensory Bin

    Christmas Village Tuff Tray

    Orange-scented Playdough Invitation

    Santa Claus Sensory Bin

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    Candy Cane Science Experiment

    Plaid-themed Christmas Rice Bin

    Lemon-scented Christmas Playdough

    Lemon cypress scented playdough with cut silk poinsettia leaves and bracts.

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    Easy S’mores Bars

    Christmas Tree Decorating Center

    Christmas Sensory Play

    Handprint Angel Christmas Keepsake

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    [Read more…] about Plaid-Themed Christmas Rice Bin

    Filed Under: Christmas, preschool, sensory Tagged With: Christmas, rice bin, sensory bin

    Chocolate Mint Playdough

    December 23, 2021 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    Include this soft, heavenly-smelling, no-cook chocolate mint playdough in your holiday activities for early learners.
    Include this soft, heavenly-smelling, no-cook chocolate mint playdough in your holiday activities for early learners.

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    This no-cook chocolate mint playdough smells divine! I usually opt for a variation of my favorite stovetop-cooked playdough for early learning activities, as I always make a huge batch of it. But this soft, pliable recipe turns out perfectly and stores well in the fridge. It’s the perfect addition to any holiday celebration. Since it is December, it’s being featured with Christmas-themed accessories.

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    Follow me on Pinterest for more playdough ideas.

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    Chocolate Mint Playdough Recipe

    Gather the following ingredients for this recipe:

    • 1 ½ cup flour
    • ½ cup cocoa
    • ½ cup salt
    • 2 tbsp. cream of tartar
    • 2 tbsp. mint flavoring
    • 3 tbsp. oil
    • 1 ½ cup boiling water

    Combine and mix the flour, cocoa, salt, and cream of tartar in a bowl.

    Add boiling water.

    Drop in the oil and mint flavoring.

    Stir all ingredients together.

    Knead the dough on a cutting board when cool.

    Store in a plastic bag in the fridge.

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    Playdough Activities

    Set out the playdough with rolling pins, holiday cookie cutters, and festive loose parts.

    Oh so heavenly chocolate mint playdough and holiday-themed accessoies.

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    Soft, pliable, chocolate mint playdough recipe and holiday-themed accessories.

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    When using a second time, offer cupcake liners, festive erasers, and white glitter for children to make chocolate confections with. Gingerbread and candy cane erasers are the “stars of the show” below.

    Christmas accessories and glitter add a festive touch to this chocolate mint playdough activitiy.

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    Tip: Little fingers will get stained with chocolate during these playdough activities. Make sure there is a handwashing station nearby.

    Holiday erasers and white glitter add a festive touch to this chocolate mint playdough activity.

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    Your little charges may be tempted to taste the playdough since it smells so heavenly. It might be nice to have a small chocolate treat for them to eat after wrapping up this play invitation. A chocolate mint flavored treat would be ideal.

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    [Read more…] about Chocolate Mint Playdough

    Filed Under: Christmas, playdough, preschool, pretend play, sensory Tagged With: chcocolate, Christmas, gingerbread, loose parts, playdough

    Christmas Village Tuff Tray

    December 22, 2021 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    An inviting, snowy pioneer Christmas village tuff tray filled with people participating in outdoor winter activities.
    An inviting, snowy pioneer Christmas village tuff tray filled with people participating in outdoor winter activities.

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    This Christmas Village tuff tray is filled with people figurines participating in outdoor activities. It’s the perfect winter play invitation to include in holiday celebrations.

    A tuff tray is a sturdy, portable tray that can be used on a table, on the floor, or outside on the ground. Although it stores easily, it can also be set on a stand. I recently purchased a tuff tray online at Education Station, and love using it for this snowy activity.

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    Supplies To Collect

    A winter-themed pioneer village tuff tray filled with people participating in outdoor winter activities during the Christmas season.

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    For the holiday tuff tray set up, gather the following:

    • wooden train tracks and train
    • wooden vehicles
    • silver and white placemats
    • tin foil disposable lid
    • snowflake window cling sheet
    • gem snowflakes
    • Christmas village-themed gift boxes
    • winter-themed people and animal figurines
    • miniature village signpost, mailbox, light post, fence, bench, and tree props

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    Setting Up The Christmas Village Tuff Tray

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    Place a large, round silver placemat in the center of the tray to represent a skating rink. Or add a circle cut from tin foil.

    Lay wooden train tracks around the circular placemat.

    Set in another snowy or icy area by trimming a white or silver rectangular placemat into a curved shape.

    Add a round tin foil or white cardstock disposable container lid to suggest a third outdoor play space.

    Then arrange the gift box buildings around the edge of the tray. These can easily be found at a dollar store.

    Cut out large window cling snowflakes, leaving the backs on. Set them in open areas in the tray.

    Next, put winter-themed people figurines and miniature village props on and around the “snow” and “ice.”

    Generously sprinkle in gem snowflakes.

    Finally, set a wooden train on the track. Or add community helper vehicles.

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    Your little learners will be excited to investigate this Christmas Village tuff tray. If some of the figurines and props you choose to use are breakable, they need to be used carefully by little ones. The holiday play invitation must be supervised by an adult at all times!

    This tuff tray setup is non-messy, so can easily be added to a session where there are ample other activity choices.

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    [Read more…] about Christmas Village Tuff Tray

    Filed Under: Christmas, display, dramatic play, preschool, pretend play, sensory, winter Tagged With: Christmas, sensory tray, tuff tray

    Christmas Treasure Blocks

    December 21, 2021 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    These festive Christmas treasure blocks will add a seasonal touch to any play area. Set them out on their own or add other toys in play invitations.
    These festive Christmas treasure blocks will add a seasonal touch to any play area. Set them out on their own or add other toys in play invitations.

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    These Christmas treasure blocks are a festive addition to any play space. They are filled with seasonal loose parts and are fun to use in play by themselves or in addition to other toys.

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    Follow me on Pinterest for more ideas.

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    Supplies To Collect

    The following supplies work well in these see-through treasure blocks:

    • buttons
    • jingle bells
    • Christmas tree garland
    • pom poms
    • pony beads
    • craft stars
    • gem snowflakes
    • metallic snowflakes
    • rubber candy pieces
    Seasonal loose parts are perfect to use with these see-through Christmas treasure blocks.

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    Assembling The Christmas Treasure Blocks

    One wood panel on each of these treasure blocks is easily removed by loosening the screws. After the blocks are filled, the panels can be screwed back on so no festive pieces fall out.

    Seasonal loose parts are perfect to use with these see-through Christmas treasure blocks.

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    My Christmas treasure blocks feature a red, green, white, and gold color scheme, but feel free to choose another one.

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    Other Christmas-themed loose parts that would work well in these blocks are:

    • sequins
    • cut straws
    • gem Christmas lights
    • foam pieces
    • erasers
    • paper shred
    • bows

    Christmas erasers, figurines and vehicles, other blocks, and seasonal décor can be included in a Christmas treasure block play invitation for added interest.

    Christmas erasers and foil trees add interest to a Christmas treasure block play invitation.

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    Treasure blocks are a recent addition to my educational toy supply, and I am definitely in love with them. I look forward to using them in more themes for little learners.

    These festive Christmas treasure blocks will add a seasonal touch to any play area. Set them out on their own or add other toys in play invitations.

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    [Read more…] about Christmas Treasure Blocks

    Filed Under: block play, Christmas, preschool, pretend play, sensory Tagged With: block play, Christmas, loose parts

    Lemon -scented Christmas Playdough

    December 19, 2021 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    Christmas playdough infused with cut lemon cypress sprigs and cut silk poinsettia leaves and bracts.
    Christmas playdough infused with cut lemon cypress sprigs and cut silk poinsettia leaves and bracts.

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    This lemon-scented Christmas playdough activity incorporates lemon cypress branches and cuttings from silk poinsettias. The plant-themed playdough experience evolved from not being able to go on a well-loved field trip this Christmas season.

    Most December months our preschool visits a local greenhouse. The children view a vast poinsettia display, smell a lemon cypress tree, participate in a scavenger hunt among cut Christmas trees, and go on a hayride. Then they plant a paperwhite bulb. The trip is always a highlight for preschool families.

    This year the field trip wasn’t possible, so I decided to bring a small, feathery needled lemon cypress tree to preschool for the children to view, smell, and use in playdough activities. I wanted to include other seasonal plants as well but realized that most popular Christmas plants are somewhat toxic or poisonous to humans.

    Chartreuse green lemon cypress trees for sale during the Christmas season.

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    My preschoolers loved this playdough invitation and your children will enjoy it too.

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    Playdough Recipes

    To offer this lemon-scented Christmas playdough invitation, start by making a favorite playdough recipe. Or use my go-to basic recipe:

    Ingredients:

    • 2 cups flour
    • 1 cup salt
    • 4 teaspoons cream of tartar
    • 2 cups water
    • 3 tablespoons oil

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    Add the first three ingredients to a sturdy pot and mix them together.

    Stir two tablespoons of oil into two cups of water.

    Add the water and oil to the dry ingredients and combine.

    Heat on the stove on medium heat.

    Stirring frequently, cook until the mixture is no longer glossy and the dough forms a ball.

    Place the dough on a cutting board.

    Knead when cool, adding in one more tablespoon of oil.

    Store the playdough in a sealed plastic bag.

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    A lemon jello playdough works beautifully too. Substitute lemon jello for cherry jello in the recipe.

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    The Lemon-scented Christmas Playdough Invitation

    For this scented playdough invitation, start by showing little learners a potted dwarf lemon cypress tree. This small, fine-textured evergreen is hand-trimmed to have a Christmas tree shape and is sold in pots at Christmas time.

    Next, have your little charges rub a branch and experience the resulting lemon fragrance.

    Give each child a lump of playdough, a few lemon cypress branches, and a pair of scissors.

    Offer lemon cypress sprigs with scissors, cookie cutters, and erasers in a fragrant Christmas playdough activity.

    _______

    Have them cut the bright yellow-green sprigs into pieces and add them to their playdough. Using the scissors to cut the playdough is fine for them to do too, as it strengthens their little fingers.

    Then give little ones a few silk poinsettia leaves and bracts to cut and blend in.

    Scissor Invitation with playdough and silk poinsettia leaves and bracts.

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    Offer additional supplies such as rolling pins, plastic pie cutters, wooden sticks, and Christmas-themed cookie cutters and erasers.

    Lemon cypress scented holiday playdough invitation with cut silk poinsettia leaves and bracts.

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    When blended, the plant parts add pops of seasonal color to the playdough and give it a Christmassy look.

    Offer this lemon cypress scented playdough invitation with cut silk poinsettia leaves and bracts.

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    Tip: A coleus plant can be substituted for silk poinsettia leaves and bracts, as it isn’t poisonous. I plan to take one indoors to save for this activity next fall.

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    Other Ways To Experience Lemon Cypress Plants

    Let your little learners use a mortar and pestle to grind and crush lemon cypress branches. A pleasant, citrus aroma will soon fill the air.

    Using a mortar and pestle with lemon cypress sprigs brings out the lemon fragrance.

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    Or invite little ones to add Christmas decorations to the tiny tree.

    Decorate a potted lemon cypress tree with Christmas decorations.

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    More Playdough Recipes and Activities

    Apple Playdough Tray

    Edible Playdough Turkey

    Scented Playdough Activities

    Pumpkin Playdough Activities

    Fall-themed playdough tray with pumpkin playdough.

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    Gingerbread Playdough

    Orange-scented Playdough Invitation

    Chocolate Mint Playdough

    Christmas Playdough

    Santa Claus Playdough Tray

    Valentine’s Day Playdough Activities

    St. Patrick’s Day Playdough Tray

    Set out this fun St. Patrick's day playdough tray for your little learners to explore. Three different colors of playdough are featured.

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    Easter Playdough Tray

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    [Read more…] about Lemon -scented Christmas Playdough

    Filed Under: Christmas, playdough, preschool, trees Tagged With: Christmas, playdough, sensory play

    Easy S’Mores Bars

    November 28, 2021 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    Easy s'mores bars to make indoors year-round for family and friends. Just three ingredients are needed for this gooey, melty dessert
    Easy s'mores bars to make indoors year-round for family and friends. Just three ingredients are needed for this gooey, melty dessert

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    This easy s’mores bars recipe comes from having forgotten to add wrapped round chocolates to October treat bags. Orange and purple don’t naturally transition into November activities, so I decided to use the chocolates in this melty dessert.

    To add versatility to the recipe, I also feature chocolate coins and chocolates wrapped in Christmas style.

    S’mores bars were originally classic campfire treats. Made indoors they can be enjoyed year-round. And little learners love to help make them!

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    S’mores Bars Supplies To Collect

    Just three ingredients are needed for this melty, tasty, indoor s'mores bars recipe.

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    Gather the following ingredients and baking supplies:

    • toasted coconut marshmallows
    • coin-shaped chocolates
    • graham wafers or gluten-free crackers
    • parchment or wax paper
    • 2 cookie sheet pans

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    Making These Easy S’Mores Bars

    Steps to make an easy sheet pan s'mores dessert recipe.

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    Preheat an oven to 350 degrees.

    Spread the graham wafers onto two sheet pans lined with parchment or wax paper.

    Place a toasted coconut marshmallow on top of each wafer on one pan. Set unwrapped chocolates on the wafers on the other pan.

    Heat both pans in the oven for three to five minutes. Watch carefully as the square halves can easily be overbaked.

    Sandwich wafers with chocolate together with marshmallow wafers and place on a dessert plate. Serve when slightly cooled.

    Delicious s'mores bars recipe using just three ingredients.

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    Stacked s'mores bars made with an easy, three-ingredient recipe.

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    Variations Of This S’Mores Bars Recipe

    My recipe features gluten-free graham crackers. Graham wafers are a traditional choice.

    Regular or mini marshmallows can be substituted for toasted coconut ones.

    Creamy Hershey’s chocolate bar squares can be used instead of wrapped chocolates. And why not experiment with one of Hershey’s festive flavors, such as “Strawberries ‘n’ Cream, “Birthday Cake”, or “Cookies ‘n’ Mint.”

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    Seasonal Recipes

    If you wish to go seasonal and are up for a bit more challenge, try one of these ingenious s’mores bars recipes:

    Fall S’mores (Recipe at southernfatty.com)

    Christmas S’mores (Recipe at darcyandbrian.com)

    Snowman S’mores (Recipe at kitchenfunwithmythreesons.com)

    Valentine’s Day S’mores (Recipe at prettyinpistachio.com)

    Easter Peeps S’mores (Recipe at domesticsuperhero.com)

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    Or surround this gooey, three-ingredient s’mores bars dessert with seasonal décor.

    Make this easy, three-ingredient s'mores bars recipe that takes a classic campfire treat indoors. Serve surrounded by festive decor at Christmas time.

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    [Read more…] about Easy S’Mores Bars

    Filed Under: autumn, camping, Christmas, desserts, party, preschool Tagged With: baking, camping, Christmas, desserts, s'mores

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    Hi, I'm Annette Kaminsky. I am a preschool teacher who loves to share easy and fun early learning activities. Thanks for visiting my blog. Feel free to stay awhile!

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