Nature Playdough

Outdoor Playdough _ close up of play _ Abbie Ulstad _ ggh

Have playdough on hand that is nearly dried up? Repurpose it with this nature playdough activity!

This forest-school inspired nature playdough activity is the PERFECT way to use up old playdough.

You know the type. It’s starting to get dried and crumbly. It has been mixed with a gillion other colors. It has picked up hair and dust. It’s ready to be thrown away.

But don’t toss it quite yet! This dough deserves a day in the great outdoors.

Here’s how we set up this extremely simple -and extremely fun- nature playdough activity.

Supplies:

  • Old playdough
  • Scissors
  • Placemat or tray (optional but recommended)

Directions:

  1. Set out playdough alongside the placemats/tray and the scissors.
  2. Briefly model for your child using the scissors or your hands to collect bits of nature. Demonstrate building with playdough and adding to your creation.
  3. Give kids time and space to explore and play! My kids personally created a little bakery with cakes and cookies that had leaf sprinkles and candles.
Outdoor Playdough _ kids playing _ Abbie Ulstad _ ggh
Outdoor Playdough _ close up of play _ Abbie Ulstad _ ggh
Outdoor Playdough _ Kid with finished playdough _ Abbie Ulstad _ ggg

Searching for another forest-school activity to do with your kids? Check out these Nature Bracelets. All you need is scissors, contact paper, and a few minutes to explore outside!

Looking for another playdough activity? Check out this Color Activity Pack for Preschoolers and Kindergarteners. It contains a color wheel activity that uses playdough – as well as 9 other activities!

Happy creating, friends!

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