Summer is coming and I thought it might be a good idea to post some fun things for the kids.  Enjoy!

Play Dough Recipe

• 3 C flour
• 1 1/2 C salt
• 6 tsp cream of tartar
• 3 C cool water
• 3 Tbsp oil
• food coloring (cake decorating paste works best)

Mix dry ingredients together in a large cooking pot. Blend all liquids in a separate bowl.  Combine with dry ingredients and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly.  Remove from heat when dough pulls away from sides of the pot and can be pinched without sticking (about 5 minutes).  Turn onto board or counter and knead until smooth and play dough consistency.  Store in airtight container.  Dough will last about 1 year if kept sealed.  Great for gifts and contains no chemicals.

Homemade Bubble Solution

• 9 parts water
• 1 part dish-washing liquid
• 1/2 part glycerin (purchase at drugstore)

Combine all ingredients.  The longer this is stored, the better it works.  Make in advance for parties, etc.

Homemade Finger Paints

• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 C cornstarch
• 3 Tbsp sugar
• 2 C cold water
• food coloring
• dish-washing liquid
• white shelfpaper

Soak gelatin in 1/4 C warm water and put aside.  In a medium saucepan, combine cornstarch and sugar.  Gradually add water and cook slowly over low heat, stirring until well blended.  Remove from heat and add softened gelatin.  Divide mixture into separate containers for each color.  For each color, first add a drop or two of liquid detergent and then add food coloring a drop at a time until you have the shade you want.  Store up to six weeks in the refrigerator.