Can't Play with Snow? Make Some Dough!

     I live in Pittsburgh, PA.  I'm not sure if it is part of the PA snow belt but I do know that we usually get a ton of snow.  Here it is, almost the middle of January and we have had minimal snow. When I say minimal I mean less than five inches.  In years past I probably wouldn't have complained about this.  However, times have changed. I have two little girls now and they are dying to make snow angels and snowmen.  So, for them, I WANT SNOW!  Besides, we are supposed to have snow this time of year! 
     With no significant snow in the forecast I wanted to do something fun with my girls that has to do with winter and snow.  I dug up an old play dough recipe from when I taught preschool at The Summit Speech School, New Jersey.  It's not just any play dough...It's snow dough and it's really easy to make.

The Recipe (Family Fun 2009)
1 cup flour
1 cup water
1/2 cup salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
2 tablespoons white tempera paint
1 tablespoon white or iridescent glitter
A few drops of peppermint extract (optional)


Directions:
Mix all of the ingredients (except peppermint)in a medium sized pot.

Cook over medium heat while stirring continuously. (Keep little hands away. Stove was not on or hot for this photo.)

Cook until mixture forms a "ball" and becomes difficult to stir, approximately 3-5 minutes.

Remove pot from stove.
Put dough on waxed paper.

Cool for 15 minutes.
Knead peppermint in dough if you desire.
Store in a zip lock bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

And don't forget to make your snowmen and DECORATE!