Well, now that we are officially in summer, I have found myself giving more baths then I used to. There is so much to compete with – mud, sand, grass, sweat – you name it, kids find it and seem to get it absolutely everywhere! Thankfully, we have the hose and a sprinkler to rinse off with, but sometimes you need the extra rinse power of soap.
From what I have seen, a large majority of kids love to play in water. Realistically, it is amazing in all respects! Not only does it splash and get everywhere but it can make magic happen by turning things colours (a white pavement may turn grey when wet), creates rivers and puddles, we use it to cool down and explore scientific concepts. And that’s not to mention the fact that we drink water and eat it in practically everything that we ingest.
So this summer, I’m going to encourage you to make some Bubble Bath Play Dough to add to the fun of water time. The great thing about this is that it is not just for the tub – but can be added to water sensory bins. Why not create a car wash bin and have the playdough be the soap that’s used to wash the cars. The big thing is to allow your children to explore and discover as they go along (and an added benefit is that they are also developing their gross and fine motor skills while they play).
Here’s how it works:
Bubble Bath Play Dough
¼ c. bubble bath (the bubblier the better)
½ – ¾ c. corn starch
1 tsp. Coconut oil (could also be grapeseed oil or just increase the amount of bubble bath slightly).
Melt the coconut oil in the microwave, if you are using a solid one. Add the bubble bath and mix well. If you wanted to add essential oils or soap colouring, now would be the time to do so as well. Slowly add the cornstarch. It should begin to pull together in a solid ball. Knead with your hands to ensure that it is mixed well. Store in an airtight container for about a week or so.
In order to use, provide your child with a tablespoon or so of the playdough and allow them to play with it while the bath fills up and while they’re in the tub. You will notice that holding it under the running water will help to create more bubbles.