Developmental Benefits
Playdough is an early learning staple. In almost every toddler and preschool classroom, you will find several different colors of dough with a variety of utensils that can be used to make, shape, and mold. While it is commonly known that most children enjoy using playdough, what you might not know is that playdough actually has several developmental benefits for early learners. Because playdough is an open-ended activity, it allows children to create whatever comes to mind, inspiring creativity and imagination.
According to NAEYC, playdough play supports the strengthening of small muscles in children’s hands and fingers that will later be used for writing. When used with a friend, playdough offers explorations in social skills such as turn-taking and sharing. Making homemade playdough with children can also introduce science and math concepts as you measure ingredients together and compare ingredient textures.
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