Chamomile is calming and soothing and many of us look forward to a relaxing cup of chamomile tea at the end of a long day. Which is why bringing the gentle effects of chamomile into play time is genius. A quiet, relaxing activity like play dough, enhanced by the calming qualities of chamomile … the perfect thing to play on a hurried, harried afternoon.
Note that this recipe is not suitable for children allergic to daisies or the ragweed family.
What you will needÂ
- 2 cups (300g) plain flour
- 1/2 cup of salt
- 2 tsp oil
- 2 tbsp cream of tartare
- 1 1/4 (310ml) cups of boiling water
- 5 chamomile tea bags
What you do
1. Put three of the chamomile tea bags into the boiling water and set aside to steep for at least 10 minutes.
2. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl, including the tea leaves from remaining two chamomile tea bags.
3. Carefully add the tea infusion, mixing as you go.
4. You may not need to use all of the water, so mix well and keep an eye on the consistency of the dough. The mix is ready when it’s still quite sticky (like a bread dough). It will become smoother with kneading.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly-floured workbench and knead until the play dough comes together. It will feel silky and pliant.
6. Play time! You can use as you would any play dough, but to enhance the calming effect of this special mix, provide some fragrant flowers like jasmine, freesias, jonquils or daphne for your child to enjoy.
