Title: Making Play-dough
Materials/Procedure: In a large bowl, mix 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup salt, 6-7 Tablespoons water, 1 Tablespoon vegetable/canola oil, 1-2 packets of kool-aid and/or 6-7 drops essential oil (i.e. lavender, peppermint, lemongrass, etc.). Add glitter optionally. Mix thoroughly, using hands. When finished playing with dough, store in an air-tight container or bag and keep refrigerated.
Rationale: Making play-dough is an enjoyable, non-threatening activity that creates an inexpensive art material that can be used many times. Some individuals with sensory integration issues or tactile aversions can benefit from a positive exposure to a new material. Clinician may gain useful information by observing the individual's reaction to new material. For example, individual may approach messy material easily and comfortably, or he/she may approach material more cautiously. Individuals may use finished product in various ways: to make sculptures of interest, as a "stress ball," as an object to throw forcefully, etc. Use of finished product may also help clinician to gain insight into client's behavior and/or thought patterns, as well as create a starting point for dialogue.
Adaptations: Use aromatherapy essential oils to work toward different types of emotional or mental goals. For example, lavender is often used to promote relaxation. Peppermint can be used to promote mental focus. Lemongrass or other citrus oils may be used to decrease level of depression.
Offer different colors of kool-aid and attach an intention to certain color. For example, a person may relate the color blue with serenity or peace, so that person may attach the intention or affirmation, "I always have access to feelings of peacefulness" to handling play-dough.
Reflection: I have made this play-dough recipe with several children. In each case, child was easily engaged in dough-making. Each child's comfort level with the dough-making process was interesting to observe. One boy was reluctant to touch dough, and waited until dough was much more solid before putting his hands into mixture. The experience was positive for the boy and his reluctance quickly faded, which gave me something concrete to notice and praise Each child enjoyed having play-dough to keep.
