Kids love modelling and play dough is the perfect medium for preschoolers. It is easy and cheap to make, uses the most basic of ingredients (even I have them in my cupboard!) and is long lasting. Toddlers enjoy the squishy, squashy nature of play dough even though they may not actually create anything. Once your kids reach 4 and 5 years old you can show them how to roll, cut and pinch the play dough to make little creatures and people.

By making your own play dough you have the choice of which colours you produce; bright or pastels, marbled, or even glitter. Your kids can help you to measure out the ingredients and knead to dough and see how truly simple it is to produce at home. Another option is to add lemon, orange, peppermint or vanilla essence/oil. This helps extend the shelf life of your play dough, prevent mould, and it smells great as well! Play dough will keep for at least two months if kept in a sealed plastic bag or container and longer if you store it in the fridge.

Salt dough is another modelling material that is simple and inexpensive to make. It is similar to play dough in consistency but can be baked to give more permanent results. The pieces can then be painted and varnished and given as gifts to grandparents. Ideas for salt dough include christmas decorations, buttons, brooches or personalised door hangers.

Kids love the stuff, so if you are keen to try your own you'll find the recipes for both play dough and salt dough here.

Most of all, have fun and enjoy your kids creativity with this great material!