To maximize the amount of time my kids will engage with playdough, I use the Hold Back Hack.
The formula goes like this: Give your kids ⅓ of the tricks in your bag at first. Then as the play slows (or the fights begin) add in more play elements to extend play. Whatever you do, don’t give them everything in your arsenal at first thinking This is so many fun things, this will surely keep them busy forever! Layering in small rounds of fun gives them the opportunity to use what they’ve been given more creatively (for longer and smarter).
So here’s the game plan:
Initial Setup: Present kids with playdough + something novel. Either a new cutter, a book to inspire scenes, a household object they haven’t used in a while for mark making (e.g., fork, toothpick).
Things to add-in to extend playdough play:
- New playdough color
- Tool - rolling pin, cutter, fork, toothpick, popsicle stick
- Mix-ins like glitter, sprinkles, or stars
- Playdough mat
- Give a prompt or assign a task.
Phrases to extend playdough play:
"Can you make a birthday cake and decorate it for your favorite stuffed animal?"
"Build a playdough zoo! What animals will you make, and where will they live?"
"Can you create a secret treasure and hide it inside a playdough rock?"
"Shape some playdough cookies for a bakery! What flavors will you make?"
"Make a playdough pizza with all your favorite toppings. Who will you serve it to?"
"Can you design a special crown or hat? Who will wear it?"
"Build a rocket ship and astronauts! Where will they fly in space?"
"Create a silly monster family. What are their names, and what do they eat?"
"Make tiny playdough houses for bugs or fairies to live in!"
“Can you make a Valentine for your friends? Make sure to sign it. I will take a picture and send it to their Mom!”
“Can you make a tall tower made with playdough balls?”
Here's my free Valentine's Day printable playdough mats.
Valentine's Day Playdough Mat - Create Shapes
Valentine's Day Playdough Mat - 10 Frames
What are your favorite Hold Back Hacks? Let me know!
Happy playdoughing!
XO,
ej