If you’re excited for your baby to play with playdough but don’t like the ingredients in the store-bought stuff, look no further. This easy no-cook dough comes together so quickly I could whip it up before the morning school bus!

In a big bowl, stir together 3 cups flour, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 cup salt, 1 cup cold water, 2 teaspoons food coloring, and 2 teaspoons vegetable oil.

Stir to form a dough, then turn out onto a surface and knead until it comes together and feels like playdough. I found it helpful to divide the dough into four smaller portions during this step.

It was time for Veronika to play! We sat down on the floor and I showed her the dough. She seemed hesitant to touch it at first!

I made a few shapes for her, showing her how to roll it into balls or snakes, or how to pay it into flat discs.

She got into the action a little tentatively, but with smiles.

Then of course she wanted to lick it. Uh oh, yucky!

Luckily the high salt content means even the most curious kids won’t take more than a sample.

Have fun making animals and name them for your baby. We had snakes and perhaps a green frog or two. The playdough will keep in an airtight container or bag for about 1 week. Next time we’ll try a different color.

Want a more fall-themed version for your baby? My all-time favorite homemade playdough is pumpkin pie scented.