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Slow Cooker Playdough

As if slow cookers weren't versatile enough, did you know you can use them to make incredible play dough?

You’ll need: 
2 cups plain flour 
1 cup cornflour 
1 cup table salt 
1/4 cup cream of tartar
2 cups hot water
2 tsp vegetable oil. 

To make:
Put dry ingredients in slow cooker. Add the water and oil and stir to mix well (I use a fork for this). Put the lid on and set to High. Set a timer for 30 minutes and stir the dough really, really well. Set the timer again for 30 minutes and repeat. Do this two more times (2 hours cooking altogether). You will know it’s about done when the playdough begins to form a ball as you stir. Switch the slow cooker off and continue stirring for a few minutes Turn the dough out onto a smooth surface and begin to knead carefully. It will be hot! (I use rubber gloves for this step so I don't get burnt fingers).  If your dough is overly sticky, add a bit of cornnflour; if overly dry, add a little hot water - about 1 tablespoon at a time.  To colour the playdough, divide it into two, three or four equally sized balls. Use your finger or the end of a wooden spoon to make a well in the centre of each ball.  Add a few drops of food colouring into each well - remember less is more, if you need more colour you can always repeat the process. Knead until the colour is evenly distributed. Store in an airtight container between play times. 

Note: The food colour may stain the children's hands as they play but it will wash off with soap and water.

Tip of the Day, 1 August 2016