Apple-themed CLOUD Dough

In this BLOG post I will teach you how to make cloud dough, the benefits of sensory play and storage tips.

Check it out in action HERE!

Cloud dough is so soft, so squishy & such a fun sensory recipe! It is easy to make, using materials you likely have on hand and can be differentiated in so many ways!

This TWO-ingredient, non-cook dough is a perfect one to let your learner make on their own. Not only will they work on following a recipe, but it will also provide opportunities for them to work on measurement, problem solving, patience & more!

Here we added a festive Fall twist with the red, yellow and green, but you can leave it as is and still have SO much fun with it!!

Want to add an extra layer of sensory goodness to your play? Use a scented conditioner! Our favorite is strawberry or coconut. I usually grab what I can find at the Dollar Store and keep it on hand!

Sensory Play encourages learning through curiosity, creativity, and free exploration of materials.

It can be a safe way to release big energy or emotions!

Sensory Play supports:

• Language development & vocabulary

• Cognitive growth

• Fine motor skills (small muscle movements)

• Gross motor skills (big movements)

• Problem-solving skills

• Communication

• Exploration of textures

• One's ability to make connections

• The concept of cause & effect

Materials:

• Cornstarch

• Hair conditioner or lotion

• Mixing cup

• Bowl

• Spoon

• Sensory tray or bowl

• Any tools or trinkets you'd like

Step 1: Measure and pour (1) cup of conditioner or lotion into the bowl.

Step 2: If you are adding food coloring, mix it in now.

Step 3: Pour in (2) cups of cornstarch.

Step 4: Mix all of the ingredients until fully incorporated. After you mix your dough, it may still look a bit crumbly. Here's where your hands get a workout! Take the mixture out & knead it. The more you squish & squeeze & smoosh the dough, the softer it gets! As all of the ingredients blend together, the dough becomes silky soft, easy to mold & perfect for little hands.

Step 5: Place it on your sensory tray or bowl, add in your favorite tools and trinkets and PLAY!

Our favorite cloud dough tools:

• Cookie cutters

• Wooden or plastic rollers

• Safety scissors

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks. Wrap it in plastic wrap to keep it soft.

• If it starts to get dry, add a little more conditioner or lotion.

• If it is too sticky, add a little more cornstarch.

Want to extend your learning and play?

• Add in your favorite alphabet or number stamps.

• Practice rolling the dough into snakes & forming letters with it.

• Hide small objects in the dough. Have your learner dig through and find them, working those fingers and hands!

Download our FREE Cloud Dough Recipe Card HERE!!!

You get to decide what is safe and manageable in your home. Always monitor young children.