Whether or not you are living in a winter wonderland it is time to play with a little snow.  With a little imagination you and your little ones are all set for an afternoon of snowy fun sans mittens. I'm kicking off Day 1 of 25 Days of 25 Winter Activities with snow playdough!

Snow Playdough

2 C flour
1 C salt
2 C water
2 TB vegetable oil
4 tsp cream of tartar
1/4 C silver glitter (iridescent glitter would look great too!)

Pour first five ingredients into a large saucepan and stir together.  This is a great opportunity to include your children.  Show them how to measure the ingredients and pour them in. 

More than one child?  Have them take turns pouring ingredients and stirring.  This is an easy opportunity to practice basic counting, verbal directions and patience.  We sing "We stir and we stir and we stop.  We stir and we stir and we stop.  We stir and we stir and we stir and we stir, we stir and we stir and we stop.  Next person!"  It's a simple song that everyone can learn quickly and helps manage turn taking. 

Add the glitter and stir until completely combined (my daughters included 'lick the glitter' in this step).

Move the mixture to the stove top and cook on medium heat constantly stirring.  In the beginning the playdough mixture will look like very thick pancake batter. 

Continue to stir until a ball forms.  Remove from heat and cool on a counter top.  Be careful! The playdough will be very hot. 

Once warm or cool to the touch your playdough is ready.  Continuing with the snow theme I introduced the playdough with tree clippings and a variety of animals.  My kids played at the same table for over 30 minutes!  Such a fun, successful afternoon.

We love snow playdough!

Are you a fan of snow or is the beach more your style?