Can you make an allergy-friendly version?

Yes, the session includes ingredient swaps for common allergies, including gluten-free and nut-free options for the base recipes. Please mention any specific allergies in advance so we can make sure the alternatives suit your household or setting.

What supplies do I need to bring for the online session?

A simple list of pantry ingredients such as flour, salt, oil and food colouring is sent in advance, all commonly found at home or easily bought at a local shop. Exact quantities and any equipment needed are included on the list.

How long does homemade playdough actually last?

Stored correctly in an airtight container in the fridge, most homemade playdough lasts several weeks, though this varies by recipe and how it's handled. We cover specific storage tips during the session to help you get the most use out of each batch.

Is this safe for children who still put things in their mouths?

The recipes covered use edible-grade ingredients and are generally considered safer than many shop-bought alternatives, though supervision is still recommended for very young children. We discuss which recipes are best suited to mouthing stages.

What if my batch turns out too sticky or too dry?

This is common and easily fixed, and the session covers simple adjustments such as adding a little extra flour or oil depending on the issue. You'll also take home a troubleshooting guide for quick reference next time.

Hands-on make & take

Homemade Playdough and Sensory Materials

Shop-bought sensory materials add up quickly, and many contain ingredients some families would rather avoid. In this hands-on session you'll make a batch of playdough and at least one other sensory material from scratch, using simple pantry ingredients, and learn how to store and vary each recipe. You'll leave with usable materials in hand and the confidence to make more whenever you like.

Led by Amy Byrne — BA (Hons) Level 8 in Early Childhood Education and Care, currently studying a Level 9 postgraduate in play therapy, Children First trained and a Mandated Person. One hour, with a take-home booklet and a dated certificate of attendance.

See dates & book Request this as a private session

Who this is for

For parents and educators wanting reliable, low-cost recipes for playdough and other sensory materials, including those managing allergies or sensitivities.

What we cover in the hour

A reliable no-cook and cook playdough recipe, and when to use each.
How to make one additional sensory material, such as cloud dough or a simple slime alternative.
Ingredient swaps for common allergies and sensitivities.
Natural versus synthetic colouring and scenting options.
Proper storage to extend the life of homemade materials.
Troubleshooting sticky, crumbly or overly dry batches.

What you'll leave with

A finished batch of homemade playdough to take home.
A second sensory material made during the session.
Two written recipes, including at least one allergy-friendly version.
Storage guidance to keep materials fresh for weeks.
Troubleshooting tips for fixing a batch gone wrong.

Inside the booklet

The booklet includes full recipes with ingredient swaps, storage instructions, and troubleshooting notes for common batch problems.

This workshop reflects the Aistear theme of Exploring and Thinking and supports Síolta Standard 2 (Environments) by ensuring safe, well-chosen materials for hands-on learning.

How it can be delivered

Delivery formats and prices for Homemade Playdough and Sensory Materials
Format	Price
Public ticket — live onlineOne hour, small group, booklet emailed	€20 per person
Public ticket — in personOne hour in a venue near you, booklet in hand	€35 per person
Private 1:1 with Amy30 minutes €25 · full hour €50 (3 for €135)	from €25
Private group — onlineParent evening or staff session, minimum 5	€35 per person
Private group — in personYour setting or venue, minimum 6	€45 per person

No VAT and no booking fees. An itemised receipt is emailed instantly, and invoices are available before you book. Running this across a whole setting? Setting packages start at €399.

Common questions

Can you make an allergy-friendly version?: Yes, the session includes ingredient swaps for common allergies, including gluten-free and nut-free options for the base recipes. Please mention any specific allergies in advance so we can make sure the alternatives suit your household or setting.
What supplies do I need to bring for the online session?: A simple list of pantry ingredients such as flour, salt, oil and food colouring is sent in advance, all commonly found at home or easily bought at a local shop. Exact quantities and any equipment needed are included on the list.
How long does homemade playdough actually last?: Stored correctly in an airtight container in the fridge, most homemade playdough lasts several weeks, though this varies by recipe and how it's handled. We cover specific storage tips during the session to help you get the most use out of each batch.
Is this safe for children who still put things in their mouths?: The recipes covered use edible-grade ingredients and are generally considered safer than many shop-bought alternatives, though supervision is still recommended for very young children. We discuss which recipes are best suited to mouthing stages.
What if my batch turns out too sticky or too dry?: This is common and easily fixed, and the session covers simple adjustments such as adding a little extra flour or oil depending on the issue. You'll also take home a troubleshooting guide for quick reference next time.

Related workshops

More in this theme: Sensory play · All workshop themes · Upcoming dates

Available live online across Ireland, and in person in Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, Louth, Cork and other counties.

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Every workshop is grounded in Irish early years frameworks and national guidance.

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