Toothpicks in a colander

    We have let big L do this activity before but this time she set it up herself.  Proud mommy moment right here.     

   Although when she first took the colander out of the cabinet I was   annoyed.  I told her to put it back; I really did not feel like washing it agian.  Par for the course she ignored me and pulled the bucket of toothpicks off the counter.  

At that point I understood what she was doing.  I changed from annoyed to proud.  I'm always happy to have her do a fine motor activity such as putting toothpicks through the holes in a colander.  

    She did dump all the toothpicks into the floor, I was not overly happy about that.  I should have made her clean it up but at that point it did not seem worth the fight.  I wish I had though.  I hate when I look back and realize I've missed a learning opportunity.  Also who wants to pick up a ton of toothpicks off the floor when they did not make the mess? Oh well that's one of the many 'joys' of mootherhood, picking up after your children.   

Oatmeal Play dough

       I love it when you stumble on a winning activity.  This one was not at first but it turned into a winner.  L had fun helping me mix the oatmeal, water, flour, and food coloring, which was great because it extended the activity time.  

Once it was mixed she thought it was a snack though, even though I had gotten out the rolling pin and some cookie cutters.  (note to self, buy some play dough toys)  

       After trying and failing to convince her that it was only for molding I broke out the toothpicks.  The toothpicks saved this activity.  L really enjoyed sticking the toothpicks into the dough rolled into a ball.  

      The recipe says it will last for 3 days.  I put it in a ziplock bag with the intent to use it again.  Unfortunately I forgot about it and it molded.  At least this activity created some fun for one morning, which makes it a winner in my book.  I will make this again but I will be sure to use it more than once. 

       Here is the link to the recipe. http://spoonful.com/crafts/oatmeal-clay