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How to Make a Jello Playdough Recipe

Looking for a creative and entertaining activity for your kids? Try our homemade Jello playdough recipe. It’s easy to make, non-toxic, and provides hours of sensory play. 

jello playdough

If you’re searching for a hands-on activity that combines creativity and play, look no further than Jello playdough. 

This tutorial will show you how to make play dough with simple ingredients found in your pantry, like a box of jello! 

Making your own play dough recipe is not only safe and non-toxic but also offers a delightful sensory experience for children. With its soft texture and irresistible colors, Jello playdough provides endless possibilities for imaginative play. 

When the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor play, making Jello playdough can be a fantastic indoor activity. It provides a hands-on experience that keeps children engaged and entertained, even on rainy days.

This Jello play dough recipe is perfect for sensory activities. As little hands squish, mold, and shape the dough, they engage their sense of touch, stimulating their fine motor skills and creativity. 

Parents and preschool teachers will find that this recipe is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

jello playdough

How to Make Jello Playdough

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of flour
  • 1/2 cup salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons Jello powder (your choice of flavor)
  • 1 cup boiling water

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour, salt, and Jello powder together.

Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the vegetable oil.

Gradually pour the hot water into the well and mix with a spoon until the ingredients come together. Pouring the water in slowly and mixing continuously will help you achieve the desired consistency without making the playdough too sticky or too dry.

Allow the playdough mixture to cool slightly, and then knead it with your hands until you achieve a smooth and pliable playdough consistency.

If the playdough is too sticky, add a small amount of extra flour and continue kneading until it reaches the desired texture.

Once the playdough is ready, you can divide it into smaller portions. 

jello playdough

Have Fun with Add Ins and Colors

  • Jello playdough comes in a variety of flavors and colors. Feel free to mix and match different Jello flavors to create vibrant and scented playdough. You can also add food coloring or essential oils for additional color and scent variations.
  • Enhance the sensory experience by adding fun elements to the playdough. Consider incorporating glitter, confetti or sprinkles to make the playdough more visually appealing and engaging for children.

More Homemade Play dough Recipes: 

How to Store Your Own Playdough 

To extend the life of your Jello playdough, store it in an airtight container or Ziploc bag when not in use at room temperature.

If the playdough starts to dry out, add a few drops of vegetable oil and knead it back to its original consistency. To keep the colors vibrant, avoid exposing the playdough to direct sunlight for extended periods. With proper care and storage, your homemade Jello playdough can last for several weeks. 

FAQ’s About Homemade Play Dough Recipe Using Jello 

Can you use Jello powder in play dough recipes?

Yes, Jello powder can be used to add color and scent to homemade playdough. The Jello powder not only adds vibrant colors but also gives a pleasant scent to the playdough, enhancing the sensory experience for children. 

Is Jello playdough safe for young children?

Jello playdough is generally safe for children to play with, but it’s important to supervise them, especially if they are prone to putting things in their mouths. Ensure that the playdough doesn’t contain any small objects that could be choking hazards.

How can I fix sticky playdough?

If your Jello playdough becomes sticky, you can gradually add small amounts of flour while kneading with dry hands until the stickiness is reduced. Be cautious not to add too much flour at once, as it may make the playdough dry and crumbly.

Can I rehydrate dried out Jello playdough?

Unfortunately, once Jello playdough has dried out, it cannot be rehydrated. It’s best to discard dried out playdough and make a fresh batch of new playdough.

Can you eat homemade jello playdough?

No, homemade Jello playdough is not meant to be eaten. The ingredients used in Jello playdough, such as gelatin and flour, are not intended to be ingested. It’s important to keep the playdough separate from food and to supervise young children during play to ensure they don’t attempt to eat it. 

jello playdough

Jello Playdough Recipe

Yield: 2
Active Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Difficulty: easy
Estimated Cost: $2

This is a simple Jello Playdough recipe that the kids can make! It smells great thanks to the Jello and is fun for kids of all ages!

Materials

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup flour
  • ¼ cup salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 6-ounce package Jello (your choice of flavor)

Instructions

  1. Mix everything together in a large bowl.
  2. Add more flour as necessary if your playdough is too wet.
  3. Store in an airtight container.

Did you make this project?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

This no cook playdough recipe contains affiliate links.

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Great play doh recipe! :-)

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