Kids learn by example from their parents (yes, I like to jump off swings too). The holidays are the time of year when everything is heightened, including the messages and traditions parents pass on to their children.
In the holiday craze, sometimes the important messages of the season get tossed out the window, only to be replaced by the, "I want..." and "Can I have..." vibe. I remember how the arrival of the massive Toys R Us catalog would send my kiddies into a "I want..." tizzy.
One gift you can never go wrong with is play dough. Little kids love its tactile squishiness. Not only does play dough provide hours of fun, it has the ability to improve hand strength, dexterity, and motor skills.
"Recent research also shows that using your fingers and hands actually stimulates your brain and increases the number of neural connections it makes." ~ Schloastic Magazine
For some fun brain exercise, why not make a batch of play dough for the little ones on your holiday list? There are lots of recipes for play dough, but this natural one I've been making with school children for years:
DIY Play Dough
What you need:
2 cups organic flour 2 cups warm water/apple juice 2 tablespoons organic coconut oil 2 tablespoons cream of tartar 1 cup organic sea salt Natural color: Beet Juice - Pink, Spinach Juice or Parsley Powder - Green, Carrot Juice or Paprika Powder - Orange, Turmeric Powder – Yellow
What to do:
1. Place ingredients, into a large pot over.
2. Cook on a low flame and mix.
3. Keep mixing until the consistency is heavy.
4. Put in bowl and let cool.
5. Knead the dough.
6. Add natural coloring
Here's the original post with more DIY eco-holiday gifts for kids.