What Do Children Learn from Play Dough?

Fine Motor Skills - Children are developing their hand muscles as they use play dough. This is called fine motor development. Fine motor activities such as play dough strengthen muscles and develop coordination that children will later need for skills such as writing. Give children plastic knives to cut the play dough and cookie cutters and rolling pins to roll out the dough and cut shapes. Offer this activity every day.

Imagination and Creativity - Children who are beginning to play imaginatively can turn play dough into anything. Give them birthday candles and cake toppers and encourage them to shape play dough into a cake. Dramatic play is valuable for young children: It deepens their thinking and helps them get ready for success in school.

Longer Attention Spans - Young children naturally have short attention spans, moving like a tornado from one activity to another. Sensory activities like sand, water, and play dough are activities that keep young children playing for longer periods of time, helping stretch attention spans.

Emotional Development - Play dough (like other sensory activities) is calming and soothing. Sensory activities are a good way for children to release tension. While these activities may be messy, recognize that the mess is worth it because these activities are very relaxing and make the day go more smoothly.

Social Development - Children can practice sharing materials. When you add dramatic play props you can give children a chance to share their ideas and play imaginatively together. Play dough helps young children grow physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially. There is a great deal of learning going on when children simply play with play dough.

Related Training:
Play Dough Fun - 3.5 hours
Sensory Play - 3 hours
Learning Through Play (1 hour / .1 CEU)