Homemade Play Dough Recipes: A Fun and Easy Way to Keep Kids Entertained

 Play Dough Recipes: A Fun and Easy Way to Keep Kids Entertained

Play dough is a great way to keep kids entertained for hours on end. It's also a great way to help them develop their fine motor skills and creativity. And best of all, it's easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients.

Here are a few of our favorite play dough recipes:

Ice Cream Playdough by Bitz n Giggles

This playdough idea is perfect for a mess free ice cream play session with the kids.

Thanksgiving Playdough by Making Frugal Fun

Make this for the family feast, and give the kids something to do while they wait to have dinner!

Shimmer Makeup Playdoh by In the Playroom

Who knew you could make playdough with make up?! This is a fun idea for girls who love all things glam.

Cornstarch and Lotion Playdough by The DIY Nuts

This recipe makes for the softest playdough ever. You are going to want to squish this a few times before letting the kids have it.

Pumpkin Spice Playdough by Suburbia Unwrapped

Playdough is always fun, but when it smells of pumpkin spice, the experience is twice as nice.

Super Soft Fairy Dough by Little Bins for Little Hands

This recipe for fairy dough is so soft it feels nothing short of magical!

Glittery Pumpkin Pie Playdough by Retro Potluck

A pinch of glitter takes this pumpkin pie play dough experience to the next level.

Glow in the Dark Playdough by Our Wabi Sabi Life

This playdough glows in the dark for an incredibly fun experience for kids.

Kool Aid Playdough  by The Best Ideas for Kids

This playdough is made with kool aid for such a vibrant color!

Chocolate Play Doh by Rainy Day Mum

Make a batch of chocolate play doh for kids to play with!

5 Minute Playdough by Made in a Pinch

This recipe only takes 5 minutes to make and is just the thing for a rainy day activity!

Color Changing Playdough by STEAM Powered Family

This recipe makes for a magical color changing dough that kids are going to love to play with.

Extract Scented Play Doh by The Typical Mom

This dough is scented with extracts for a sensory experience that kids are going to love.

Glittery Blue Playdough by Tikkido

This glittery blue play doh is perfect for a Frozen themed play session.

Conditioner Playdough by Sweet Silly Sara

Make this recipe with conditioner for a really soft playdoh to share with the kids.

Play Dough Variations There are endless possibilities when it comes to play dough variations. Here are a few ideas: Add glitter or confetti for a festive touch. Add essential oils for a calming aroma. Add herbs or spices for a sensory experience. Add different types of flour for different textures. Add salt dough to make ornaments or other crafts. With a little creativity, you can make play dough that's perfect for your kids. So get started and have fun!

Find more play doh ideas here:
Play Doh Food Puzzles
Play Doh Pie Counting

Playdoh Meatball Math

Are you looking for a way to make early math engaging for kids? This play doh activity makes for a fun way to master early counting skills in a manner that kids are going to want an extra helping of.

We are a play doh family through and through. Over the years I have created so many hands on lessons for my kids as well as invitations to play that started with a simple can of squishy play doh.  From a prickly cactus craft that my tween was enchanted by, to  DIY food puzzles for toddlers. I have always felt that playdoh was one of the best toys to have on hand because it doubles as a learning tool.

This idea is so much fun! It starts with 2 cans of play doh and a cute little pan. Grab a few dominoes and your little learners are ready to jump into this awesome activity.

Supplies:

Play doh. I used yellow, a little red and a little orange.

A small pan

Dominoes

Directions:

Create a pan of noodles from the yellow playdoh by rolling out into thin strips between your hands and tear them off at various lengths.

Combine a ball of red and orange dough together to make the meatballs. 

Now tear off small sections and roll them into balls.

Place the noodles into the pan.

Leave the meatballs over to the side.

Invite your preschooler to select a domino from the pile and count the dots.

This is how many meatballs this spaghetti needs. Count the meatballs as you add them to the noodles.

Repeat as desired until you have used all of the dominoes or mastered your counting lesson. I know your kids are going to love this take on early math!

Find more epic playdoh activities here.

Favorites include:

Play Doh Pie Counting

Lollipop Counting

Play Doh Pre Writing Activity

Play Doh Snails

Play Dough Ornaments 

Find more fun math ideas like these math games for kids.

Strawberry Ghosts

Trying to eat a little healthier this fall? You are in luck! With this simple recipe you can make a serving of candy coated fruit to satisfy your cravings.

I am always trying to make fruits and veggies more appealing to my kids. This recipe is a sure way to get kids excited about strawberries, while giving them a little of the candy they desire.

Supplies:

Strawberries

White candy melts

Candy eyes

Parchment or wax paper

Directions:

Wash the berries and dry them on a paper towel.

It is very important that you remove all the exterior moisture before you dip into the chocolate.

If there is still water/moisture on the berries when you dip into the chocolate; it will clump up fast.

When the berries are dry melt the white chocolate/almond bark according to the directions on the packaging.

Dip the berries into the melted chocolate, working fast.

Place the berries on the wax paper.

Before the chocolate has a chance to harden, drop 2 candy eyes on each berry.

When all of the berries have eyes, you can place them in the fridge to help the chocolate harden.

You can enjoy these within 15 minutes or so.

These are perfect for sharing at a Halloween party! What a sweet little spooky ghost!

I bet you can't eat just one!

These are delicious, easy to make, and while they do have a candy coating, they are so much healthier than some of the options Halloween is best known for!

Make a batch and stop by to share a little BOO! with a friend or neighbor!

Or maybe just eat them all by yourself! 

 You can find all of my Halloween ideas here

Reader favorites include:

DIY Halloween Tree

Pumpkin Face Window Clings

Play Doh Ghost Ornaments

Mummy Pretzel Snacks

Paper Plate Spiders

Play Doh Pumpkin Faces

Reclaimed Wood Black Cats

Mickey Mouse Jingle Bell Necklaces

Jingle all the way with these adorable DIY Mickey Mouse jingle Bell Necklaces! 

Christmas is close, and this year things are going to be tight for a lot of families. Skipping the gifts just isn't right! We all deserve a surprise this year! So why not make a dozen Mickey Mouse Jingle Bell Necklaces to share with the special people in your life?

You can make about a dozen necklaces for $3 if you shop at Dollar Tree for supplies. These are awesome for classroom gifts or a way to spread a little cheer with a very limited budget.

Supplies:

Large Bells

Smaller Bells

Ribbon or bakers twine

Scissors

Hot glue gun

Cut the ribbon to the desired length. (12-15" is ideal)

Thread your ribbon or twine thru the top of the large bell.

Use the hot glue gun to attach the small bells to the large bell. 

Place one bell on either side of the ribbon.

Allow the hot glue to dry for a few moments.

Tie off the ribbon to complete the necklace. Make sure your knot is secure.

Your necklace is ready to wear or share! Jingle all the way with a touch of Disney magic!

If you are looking for more Christmas ideas check out these reader favorites:

Button Tree Ornaments 

Design Your Own Play Doh Ornaments

Ways to Accessorize Your Outfit with DIY Ornaments

 Nowadays, you can get outfits and accessories for all occasions, thanks to lading designers Like Alexander McQueen, Celine, and Gucci. The collection of dresses, shoes, bags, and accessories is also limitless, and getting the best attire shouldn't be an issue. But, have you ever thought of flattering your gear with DIY ornaments? These ornaments are quite famous and are a great way of creating that stylish yet unique look.

Here's how to match your outfit with DIY ornaments:

1. Avoid color mistakes- pay attention to color coordination

Accessorizing your outfit is not just about wearing all types of ornaments that you come across. Your ornaments should match your outfit perfectly. For instance, if you're wearing a colorful dress with many colors, your accessories should help tone down the color and blend well with your dress.

Natural hues are splendid for bight colored dresses, and this avoids color clashing. Simple outfits match well with elaborate ornaments. For instance, you enjoy more flexibility with a black dress, and brightly colored ornaments are ideal.

2. Wear event-appropriate outfits    

             

How you dress depends on your type of event. For formal occasions, you need more conservative outfits and jewelry accessories. Dangling jewels don't work so well in the office. If dressing for work, you may want to forgo too many bangles and hanging bracelets. Moreover, choose ornaments in cool or natural colors.

But, if attending a party or a night out with friends, your choices are limitless. You can choose those bright colored dresses and accentuate your looks with colorful DIY ornaments of your choice. 

 What's more? You can match this with a cute clutch or a leather tote bag. You can as well add a scarf and gloves for that classic look. The idea here is to stand out but still achieve the perfect match for your accessories.

3. Your skin tone matters!

Your ornaments should not only go with your outfit but your skin tone as well. Silver is an excellent choice for illuminating natural tones. On the other hand, gold is ideal for women with darker hair or matte skin. For cooler skin tones, Ornaments in red, purple, and blue colors make perfect choices. For warmer skin tones, choose yellow, green orange ornaments.

4. Chose a focal point

Accessorizing your outfit is all about limits. Choosing giant and brightly colored ornaments draw attention to your jewelry, making others not to notice you. Remember your decorations are meant to complete your outfit and not a focal point.

Choose accessories that blend in well with your dress, handbag, and shoes. Avoid jewelry that draws more attention than your outfit. If you are wearing other types of jewelry, match them well for a more harmonized look. Visit ARY D'PO if you're looking for some nice designer pieces.

The bottom line

DIY ornaments are cost-effective and stylish. They are a great way of accentuating your looks-in a unique way, of course. No matter the type of outfit, you can also make ornaments to suit your style and dress. To make the best DIY pieces for your dress, acquire some materials from your local store, and search online for tips on making the best ornaments for all outfits and occasions.

Holiday Gifts for Guys That They Will Love

What are you getting the guys in your life this holiday season? I don't know about you, but shopping for my husband and my father is tough. When asked, they respond that they don't really want anything, and let me tell you, that is no help when trying to shop. I gathered up some of my favorite ideas for men this holiday season and I hope this list helps you find a great gift for the special guys in your life.

Samples were provided for inclusion.

A great watch never goes out of style. Joycoast makes options that are classy and stylish, and perfect for daily wear. Wood watches are a welcome option from the smartwatch scene for guys who like to do things, like tell the time, the old fashioned way. Find comfortable wood watches for men starting at about $89.

Veppo Vape makes a good gift for someone who wants to quit smoking. Find an assortment of vapes and ecigs, as well as vapor flavors to satisfy the nicotine cravings.  The rum vape is perfect for the holidays!

Detomaso watches are the perfect holiday gift. These watches are gorgeous and make a statement when gifted. From the unique movement to the quality leather strap, this is the gift you give to someone really special. Find this style for about $175.

Gift a reader, film fanatic or traveler a scratch-able poster. These are a fun way to mark items off your to see, read and visit list while displaying them as art. Check out the collection available in the Enno Vatti amazon store. Prices are about $22 a poster.

Beavercraft makes these awesome carving kits that make the perfect gift for guys. They can learn a new skill, like carving, while relaxing and making art. This wizard kit is about $25. The easy to follow instructions make this kit a great introduction to carving.

Yellow Dot Artist makes affordable art prints that are great for gifting! I love the one pictured here. Is it a cat or a dragon? You be the judge. Browse the selection of prints, where prices start at about $15.

Groovy Groomsmen Gifts is my go to for personalized gifts that guys want to get! From money clips to useful knives with their initials, you can find a ton of great gift ideas on site. This altered carbon knife costs about $35 and is really gorgeous.

Do you know what guys need for the holidays? More power access! Accell Power makes having a place for all of your devices and electronics a reality instead of a dream. These are affordable, offer surge protection, a place to plug in cords, and even a place for usb cords, so you can power up anywhere. Find a variety of Accell power series devices to fit his needs for about $30.

CLEAR2O Personal Filters offers dual filtration for fresh and clear water ANYWHERE! This is the perfect gift for active guys who love adventure or guys who dig fresh,clear water. Check out their impressive line of filtration products to find a good fit for the guy on your shopping list.

Kore Classic Fashion belts are the perfect gift because they feature a hidden track with over 40+ sizing points, so you can adjust in 1/4" increments for a perfect fit every time. Shop Men's Casual Belts and Men's Dress Belts for work, play, or out on the town.  Order as a set, or shop buckles & belts separately. Prices start at about $50.

Rawhyde Leather makes some of the best wallets for men. These are awesome for a holiday gift because they will be used daily, and this brand has such beautiful quality and workmanship. As a bonus they are incredibly affordable! Prices start at about $20 for a nice basic wallet.

The Shower Caddy Locker by Schlocker is the perfect gift for college aged men , or any man in a shared living situation, as it gives them a secure place to store their toiletries without having to share with their roommates. This is an easy to install locker, that is affordable too. Order it from Amazon for about $30. 

I love Water to Go bottles for adventurous and active guys because these bottles are personal filtration systems on the go. Basically any water source can become a fresh water source with one of these bottles. Order one for a guy who loves to explore for about $50.

Guys who spend time looking at a screen will appreciate these blue light glasses by Jins. They reduce eye strain and look great too. For a limited time you can order a pair for FREE on their site, or find options for heavy screen users and more.

Gift great style with the V neck Sweater with Collared Shirt from Flying Point Apparel. This is perfect for wearing to holiday parties, or daily use! Order for about $80 for a look that he can rock all winter long.

After a long day at work, any guy can appreciate an on demand shiatsu neck and back massager from  ireliev. This gives a deep massage that feels awesome, anytime he wants one with or without heat. Order for about $80 for year round relief.

 

Bendyfigs make a great gift for guys because they can check out their favorite movie characters and relive old times as they re-enact a few scenes, if they wish too. These highly detailed figures are about $14. Find several favorite lines like Lord of the Rings, Monsters, Star Trek and more.

 Ridge Merino  wool flannel shirt jackets make the perfect gift for guys who live in cold climates because they are so toasty! They look great for regular wear and is so durable and well made it will last for years. Order for about $150.

Hawaiian Hookum: Tiki Style Ring Toss Game and Decoration makes for a great gift idea for guys because it looks awesome, and is really fun to play too. Find it on amazon for about $20, for a gift he will love to show off!

Motorola 3 in 1 smart true wireless earbuds are a fantastic gift that will get a lot of use. They are alexa/siri/google assistant enabled, produce quality sound and will set you back less than $100 for a gift that is going to get daily use. 

A laptop is always a nice gift, especially if your guy doesn’t own one or has an old machine he’s been using since forever. Get a good quality laptop with decent specs if your guy isn’t a heavy user. If he plays games or edits videos, choose a model with higher specifications. If uses his computer for work, better get him a business laptop that can keep up with his pace and work demands. 

 

I hope these gift ideas help you find something awesome for the men in your life this holiday season. While you are here, check out some of my favorite DIY ornaments?

 

Gifts for Guys with Beards

 Do you need a great gift idea for a guy who happens to rock an awesome beard? I have some suggestions that will keep his beard healthy and hip! From a starter kit that has everything he needs to maintain his beard, to a great shaving brush and razor for his beard maintenance. This list has some pretty great products on it that any guy would love to get as a gift!

This Beard Guyz Starter Kit has daily wash, conditioner, beard oil, and beard balm for regular beard care. They have a ton of great products on their site for beards, so browse around and find something perfect for the holidays. 

I love a good deep conditioner for my hair, so giving a guy with a beard some beard balm that is a leave in conditioner makes a lot of sense. This one from Forrester is fabulous. It leaves my husbands beard so soft and it smells really manly too. Order it from Auntee B Naturals for about $20. 

Reuzel makes an amazing line of beard care and other manly goods to keep a beard looking its best. From beard serum to beard wash and so much more. Check out their site and browse the line, you will find a lot of stuff you want to buy for all of your favorite beards! Prices start at about $10.

Guys who have beards still need great shaving products because they need to maintain their beard shape, length and so on. Fulton & Roark makes some convenient as can be aftershave wipes and shave cream that helps keep a bead in great shape! Prices start at $22.

For guys with beards that love Whiskey, check out the Classic Manhattan Collection. They make some really great smelling products for beards! From beard oils, to beard softeners, and shampoos and conditioners just for beards! Check out the collection online to order.

The Clear Confidence Company makes classic shaving brushes and razors to keep his beard well maintained and well shaped. Guys will appreciate that this is a nod to classic shaving equipment. Get the Men's Grooming Bundle for about $40.

While you are here, why not check out some of my DIY Christmas Ornaments.

I hope this guide helps you find a great gift for a guy with a beard in your life.