Morning work begins with Play-doh!
I started using Play-doh with my second-grade students as a form of word work and they love it. The texture is so engaging, even my older students enjoy the activities!
There are so many ways to use Play-doh in the classroom. Here is a list of ideas for you:
Play-doh is a great ice breaker for the first day of school!
East first-day jitters – Set out some Play-doh on desks with some fun task cards. Having an activity ready to go can make the first day of school easier and lessen anxiety. Another idea is providing cookie cutters and letting students be creative!
Morning tubs – If you use morning tubs with your kiddos, Play-doh would be a great addition to them for fun STEM activities.
Word work with letter stamps – I use rubber letter stamps quite a bit in my word work stations and my students love them! This frees up time to meet with students in small groups with fewer interruptions #yeah #winning
Fine motor skills practice – Keeping a few pairs of scissors and some tongs handy is a great way to practice fine motor skills. Rolling the Play-doh into snakes and cutting small chunks to be picked up by tongs and put into a bowl is one example.
Storage – I keep our Play-doh supply in Sterlite boxes, Sterlite model 19638606, the large clip box, which I use to store all the things. The lids stay on tight and don’t spill! They also help keep air out and prevent drying.
Free time center – During free time, or during indoor recess, Play-doh is a great option. I have several cookie sheets that I bought from the Dollar Tree to use as mats. This contains those tiny bits from getting permanently squished in the carpet, or on the floor, etc.
Measurement/Ruler math activities – When introducing measurement, this is a great way to help students visualize lengths. Have students roll out specific lengths to get hands-on practice with measuring.
Playdoh does dry out easily so we talk about the importance of putting the lids on securely. When you need to replace your supply, I have found great deals at Walmart. They often have school packs for packs of 48 for $25.
Also, add this great resource to add to your toolbox, Play-doh.com They have great videos and a “how-to” page with lots of ideas!
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