Kids love to create while they learn. Classroom recipes are the perfect way to make learning hands-on and memorable!
My boys love to make homemade playdough, especially pumpkin playdough!
Pumpkin Playdough Recipe
This easy homemade playdough recipe is so easy and it only requires two ingredients. This fall preschool cooking activity makes it perfect for the classroom!
Ingredients:
- 1 15 oz. can pumpkin puree
- cornstarch (the amount will vary, we used about 2 cups+)
Dump the can of pumpkin puree into a bowl.
Begin to shake in the cornstarch about half a cup at a time. Use a spoon or spatula to stir and combine.
Each brand of puree has a different level of moisture, so the amount of cornstarch used will be based on the moisture level. We used the Trader Joe brand puree and easily used 2 cups of cornstarch.
Check out this research-based, playful learning unit in our curriculum shop!
Pumpkin Activities Bundle
The pumpkin activities bundle includes 6 of my most popular resources such as math, literacy, science - and more for plenty of hands-on fun!
Make Pumpkin Playdough
- Stir and add until it reaches a playdough-like texture.
- Feel with your hands to ensure it is no longer sticky.
- Keep adding cornstarch until it is no longer sticky.
- If you accidentally add too much cornstarch, just add a few drops of water to soften it back up.
- You can also add a few tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice for an extra festive scent.
Create Pumpkins with Play Dough
The pumpkin pie playdough recipe should be the same consistency as regular store bought playdough.
Place it on a work station and let them play.
We used cookie cutters, rolling pins, Lego bricks, etc., to make fun creations.
My boys loved this.
It is a great opportunity to work in some life skills and let them help “cook”.
You can store this pumpkin pie play dough in a Ziplock bag in the fridge for about 5 days.
Enjoy!
Contributed by Crystal, a Dallas Mom Blogger.
More Fall Activities
This pumpkin pie play dough activity was easy and fun. Here are a few more ideas to explore in the Fall with your preschoolers.
- Little Red Hen Activities For Fall – The story of the Little Red Hen is a great one for expanding with different types of activities. As you explore fall, harvest, farm, or cooperation themes, use these activities to supplement and support learning through this traditional story.
- Fall Sensory Bin for Preschool Sensory Play– No matter where you live, your little learners will have a blast with this fall themed sensory bin! It’s super simple to set up at home or in your preschool classroom.
- Fall Tinker Tray– Inspire seasonal art and engineering with a Fall Tinker Tray for preschoolers! This flexible invitation to create allows children to work on fine motor, social, and creative skills simultaneously. The possibilities are endless!
More Thanksgiving Activities
Check out this research-based, playful learning unit in our curriculum shop!
The Ultimate Pre-K Thanksgiving Lesson Plan Bundle
15 of our most popular Thanksgiving theme resources, including math and literacy small group activities! Make learning fun with these hands-on resources!
