Halloween Play Dough Tray

Directions

1. Mix together 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup salt, 2 tablespoons cream of tartar, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, and a few drops of glycerin (optional).
2. Add 1.5 cups boiling water and stir until it is cool enough to handle.
3. Knead the dough well until it becomes smooth.
4. Divide the dough into batches and add food coloring (e.g., purple, green, orange, black) or liquid watercolors/tempera paint, kneading thoroughly to achieve desired colors.
5. Set up the activity by spreading out a sheet on the floor and providing wipe-clean placemats.
6. Place the play dough and Halloween-themed accessories (spider rings, erasers, buttons, mini pumpkins, cookie cutters) in the tray.
7. Encourage children to roll, mash, and shape the dough using the tools and accessories.
8. Decorate shapes with the other goodies or engage in pretend play (e.g., bakery shop).
9. Clean up and store the play dough for another day.