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Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples—it’s a perfect opportunity to celebrate the little loves in your life! What better way to show your kids how much you adore them than with a handmade, thoughtful gift? This lavender playdough makes a wonderful Valentine’s Day surprise—it’s easy to make, smells absolutely delicious, and feels incredibly luxurious in little hands. Plus, crafting something together is a fun and meaningful way to bond with your child while engaging their senses.
As a preschool teacher at The Kitchen Garden Play School, I’m always looking for ways to engage little hands and minds in creative, nature-inspired play. One of our favorite go-to activities is homemade playdough—it’s easy, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable! Recently, I was inspired by The Natural Nurturer, White Oak Lavender Farm, and Crafts on Sea to create a lavender-scented playdough that’s perfect for young children ages 3-5. This simple recipe not only provides a fun and engaging sensory experience but also harnesses the calming benefits of lavender.
Why Lavender Playdough?
Lavender has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and reduce stress. For little ones, the gentle scent of lavender can help create a soothing playtime environment, making this playdough perfect for winding down after a busy morning or for helping with transitions between activities. Plus, the soft, squishy texture strengthens fine motor skills and encourages imaginative play.
Homemade Lavender Playdough Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup salt
- 2 tablespoons cream of tartar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 1 cups boiling water
- 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds (optional, for extra texture and scent)
- 10-15 drops lavender essential oil
- A few drops of purple food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cream of tartar.
- In a measuring cup add the vegetable oil and dried lavender buds, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Add the boiling water to the cup, stir
- Add lavender essential oil and food coloring into the hot mixture.
- Then pour the hot water mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir.
- Continue mixing until a dough forms.
- Once the dough is cool enough to handle, knead it for a few minutes until it reaches a smooth and pliable consistency.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a month.
Quality and Ease of the Recipe
This recipe is a tried-and-true winner! It’s soft, stretchy, and holds up well for weeks when stored properly. Even better, it requires simple pantry staples, making it a quick and easy project that doesn’t involve a trip to the store. The addition of lavender essential oil gives it a lovely, lasting scent, while the optional dried lavender buds add an extra sensory element that kids love.
The Benefits Beyond Play
Lavender playdough isn’t just fun—it’s a wonderful tool for emotional regulation. Many children (and adults!) find the scent of lavender relaxing, which can be particularly helpful for those who struggle with transitions or overstimulation. Squishing, rolling, and molding the dough provides a natural outlet for stress relief while strengthening fine motor development.
A Simple Way to Bring Calm to Playtime
Making this lavender playdough is as fun as it is beneficial. Whether used for open-ended play, calming sensory breaks, or as part of a nature-themed learning experience, it’s a simple yet powerful way to bring relaxation into your child’s day.
For more inspiration, check out the wonderful resources that helped inspire this post:
We’d love to hear how this recipe worked for you! Leave a comment below with your experience, share this with another parent or caregiver who would enjoy making it, and follow along for more fun, nature-inspired activities!
