Katie, who lives in Dubai, sent in this great nature stamping idea. Let’s take a look at it…
What did you do?
Making the most of the beautiful weather, my twin boys (aged 3.5) and I, had been enjoying many nature walks around where we live! We had collected fallen leaves, pine cones, acorns and petals and had been discussing the textures of the different items. To extend this, we made some easy play dough and scented it with fresh lavender and enjoyed using the items from nature to press and stamp different patterns into the dough!
For the dough you will simply need 1 cup of cheap moisturiser and 2 cups of corn flour! Mix first with a spoon and then form together with your hands. It’s creates the most silky smooth addictive dough and is a firm favourite in my house! I added some lilac food colour gel and some fresh lavender from the garden to add an extra sensory element to the activity!
I loved that there were so many sensory elements to this activity! The dough itself has a mesmerising texture, along with the lavender scent and the patterns we made with the stamps
Do you have any other projects planned?
I have just made some home made name, shape and number rubbers with old cardboard and a glue gun for rubbing over with crayons!
Tell the Housebound With Kids community a bit about yourself…
Hi! I’m Katie! I have twin boys aged 3.5! I’m British and have been living in the UAE for 7 years but spend lots of time with family in the UK! I am an Early Years Practitioner and have also recently qualified as a SENDCo. I am very passionate about play based learning!
@wesayletsplay
Do you have any tips for other parents?
Keep it simple! As your children play, add in different random items slowly to naturally extend their play and learning. For example, as your little ones play with their paw patrol figures, add in some plastic/paper cups for them to build bridges or hide the pups!
What are your family’s favourite board game(s)/card game(s)?
We love “I saw it first!” We have the jungle version!
What are your children’s favourite books?
So many! We love the classic fairy tales but have also been loving the “You Choose” range by Nick Sharratt! They are amazing for prompting conversations!
What toys would you recommend to other parents?
Open ended toys are the best!
Has this website and community helped you?
I have got lots of inspiration from the lovely ideas on the website!
