Sometimes it’s hard to come up with project ideas for holidays that can also be considered learning activities, but I think making things with salt dough fits that category.
If the kids help you make the dough, you’re getting some math in with measuring, science in the mixing of ingredients to make the dough, and a bit of sensory play as you work the dough. And making the project itself is art, so there’s a lot going on in these simple projects.
There are lots of recipes for salt dough and air-dry clay
out there, but an easy one is to mix a cup of salt and two cups of flour with enough water to make a rollable, moldable dough (start with about 3/4 of a cup of water).
What to do with the salt dough once it’s made? Here are some great ideas to make for Father’s Day:
- Thumbprint Magnet | Messy Little Monster
- Salt Dough Handprint Bowl | Messy Little Monster
- Hand and Foot Heart Keepsakes | Rhythms of Play
- Toddler Made Salt Dough Picture Frames | Uno Zwei Tutu
- Salt Dough Heart Candle Holder | Learning and Exploring Through Play
- DAD Salt Dough Picture Frame | Soccer Mom Blog
- Hands and Photo Heart Keepsake | Teach Me Mommy
And while this one is clay, not salt dough, the DIY Marbled Clay jewelry dish from Rhythms of Play is gorgeous, too. And in a similar vein, but a little more involved/time consuming/messy, there’s the Father’s Day stepping stone from Kids Activities Blog.
Do you like to make gifts for Father’s Day? I’d love to hear what you’re planning.
Did you know Father’s Day was founded in Washington in 1910 by Sonora Smart Dodd, Its first celebration was in the Spokane YMCA on June 19, 1910. Her father, the Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart, was a single parent who raised his six children there and the day was created to honour him and it’s achievements as a single father.
Looking for more salt dough projects? check these salt dough crafts out on our sister site Craftbits.com
If you are looking for an airdrying clay as an alternative I highly recommend Das Airdrying white clay
Wow! Really awesome hand craft if anyone made it for dad than it will help him or her in financial ways .just for fun.
But thanks for sharing this us.
Thanks for sharing this list! I love finding ways for the kids to make gifts instead of purchasing something from the store.