Playdough Tool Shop

Molding playdough builds fine motor strength while exploring helper tools.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: Community Helpers
• Learning area: Physical Development and Motor Skills
• Level: Level 1

Objectives

• Create simple tool shapes from playdough

Materials

• Playdough in helper colors (red, blue, white)
• Rolling pins
• Plastic knives

Instructions

1. Demonstrate rolling a 'fire hose' snake.

2. Show how to flatten a 'badge' circle.

3. Let children create freely.

4. Ask: 'What tool did you make?'

Educator tip

Accept all creations—the process matters more than realistic products.

Assessment

Observe pincer grasp, rolling technique, and verbal descriptions of creations.

More from Community Helpers

• Helper Color Sort
• Thank You Helper Cards
• Helper Interview
• Map My Community
• Safety Sign Detectives
• Tool Investigation Station
• Favorite Helper Graph
• Emergency Response Center