Goopy, Gooey Homemade Slime

One thing that our BeKids love and even my own daughter lobes is making Homemade Slime. Perhaps it's a similar feeling to when you are at the beach and it's that sensory enrichment you get from digging your toes in the sand. Pushing, kneading and forming homemade slime can give way to hours of sensory play.

There are some actual benefits to this kind of messy play that in a somewhat controlled environment isn't all that messy. Slime is a fantastic "sensory toy." It really works with four out of the five senses. We say four as we don't really suggest eating it. :) It helps children explore touch, smell, visual and hearing senses. (It makes a very funny farting sound if manipulated the right way. My daughter finds this fascinating...)

Not only does it lend itself to sensory play but it can also benefit children AND adults in many ways. I am sure you've seen a stress ball that you can knead and squeeze. Homemade slime, if made correctly can be used to pull, squeeze, mold, and keep hands busy giving children and adults suffering from anxiety and stress an opportune distraction.

Here's a quick an awesome recipe for a rainy day project. We've suggested one without Borax.

Ingredients

1/2 cup shampoo

1/4 cup cornstarch

Food coloring (optional)

6 Tablespoons of water

Directions

1. Combine shampoo and cornstarch in a bowl and mix well.

2. Add food coloring. Three drops is usually good.

3. Add 1 tablespoon of water and stir. Add the remaining 5 tablespoons of water, stirring well after each one.

4. One stirred knead your slime for 2 to 5 minutes.

VIOLA!!!!