How to Make Modeling Clay

"I'm bored!" It's the summer vacation mantra for children. Getting the kids involved in arts and crafts is a wonderful alternative to filling hours with television and video games, and it's a great way to keep their minds engaged. You can even make things like modeling clay using simple household items. Here is a quick and easy way to make modeling clay at home for your kids.

Things You'll Need

• Flour
• Water
• Salt
• Food coloring

Instructions

1. Mix 2.5 cups of flour with 1 cup salt and 1 cup water. Add desired food coloring.

2. When ingredients are moist and well-blended, begin kneading the mixture with your hands until the texture is firm and clay-like.

3. Place mixture into an airtight container to prevent drying.

4. Repeat the initial steps, using a different food coloring for each batch. Consult the food coloring package for unique color combinations such as chartreuse.

5. Keep modeling clay in separate, airtight containers before and after use to keep the mixture moist and pliable.

Tips & Warnings

• Invite the kids to help with the recipe, as the ingredients are safe and there is no cooking required.

• If a masterpiece is formed, leave it out to dry!

• Keep this homemade mixture and all other modeling clays away from carpeted areas. It's just not fun trying to get it out.

• Old clothes are best when playing with the modeling clay, as there may be a chance of stains from the food coloring.

• While the concoction is non-toxic, it is still a good idea to keep an eye on playtime to make sure too much isn't being ingested. The high salt content could be problematic.