Easy Gifts Kids Can Make: Playdough Snowman Set

Playdough is easily one of our favourite go-to activities, and has been for years! And while it’s certainly fun to play with just as it is — or with the usual cookie cutters and rolling pin combo — we love putting together themed playdough sets based on what time of year it is. This simple little snowman set has been a hit in our house for several years running now, and I’m pretty sure it’ll be a winter staple for years to come. 

Here’s what you’ll need to put together one of your own:

• white playdough (store bought or homemade)
• googly eyes
• match sticks
• little scarves cut from inexpensive felt or ribbon
• assorted buttons
• any other loose parts you think your little one might enjoy
• assorted small jars 
• one medium-size rectangular storage container

Now here’s the very best thing about themed playdough sets… Once you’ve gathered up your materials, you simply set them out in a divided tray, put a placemat out to use as a work surface and wait for your munchkin to come by and dive in. Pretty simple, right?

What's great about this craft, too, is how portable it is. Which is why it makes an excellent and affordable gift! All you need to turn your household activity into someone else's gift is to replicate the materials, and divide them into small jars. Next, place the jars, dough, tiny sticks and pre-cut scarves in a larger container and tie it up nice-and-pretty with a couple of bows. Et voila! A ready-to-use (and re-use) snowman kit any kid would love to get on Christmas morning!

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In the land of play dough, much like in the land of art, there is really no wrong or right way to use the materials (so long as they’re being used safely, of course). If you can, try to take a step back and let your child create as he or she wishes. The materials may not be used as you imagined they would be, but so long as your little one is having fun and using their imagination, that’s all that matters!

Allow your little one to play to their heart’s content! When they're done, disassemble the snowmen and sort loose parts back into the divided tray. Then pop the dough into an air-tight bag or container and store everything together for tomorrow’s playdough play session. Enjoy!