Preschool Activities From the Kitchen

There is a universal problem among babysitters, stay at home parents and professional child care providers. The problem is the dreaded cry of the young child, calling out: "I'm bored!!!" Imagine the added horror of being housebound due to weather, or even worse, illness. You've been blessed with a crabby, antsy, cabin fever afflicted child. Is there a possible cure? Can sanity be restored? Of course it can! Now, sit down, take a deep breath and stop pulling your hair out!

I have prepared five simple, messy, child pleasing activities. These are crafts that require little more items then what you already are likely to have in your kitchen. They shouldn't cost you much more then your time.

Craft Number One: Whipped Snow

You will need:
2 Cups of warm water
1 Cup of soap flakes
1 Large bowl
1 electric mixer
*optional - food coloring

Directions:
In the large bowl, add the soap flakes and the warm water. Beat with the electric mixer until the mixture is very fluffy. If you want your snow to be colored, now is the time to add the color. Just add a drop at a time and mix, repeating until you reach your desired color. You may also choose to split the snow into smaller bowls and color them individually. Your child may now mold and shape the snow to their little heart's content. Allow the snow to dry for a longer display.

Craft Number Two: Homemade Silly Putty

You will need:
2 parts white glue (Elmer's School Glue or something similar.)
1 part liquid starch
1 small mixing bowl
1 air tight container

Directions:
Combine the glue and the starch into the small mixing bowl and mix together well. All the mixture to set and dry until you find that the putty is workable and not too sticky.

Important Note:
There is no exact science to making the putty. It reacts differently on different days due to humidity, temperature, etc. It is best to save this activity for dry, clear days. Also, be prepared to play with the measurements a little until you reach a consistency that makes you happy. You can always add more glue or starch.

Craft Number Three: Sugar Cube Sculptures