This is a great sensory activity… and a way to get your kid to try mashed potatoes!

Start with instant mashed potatoes as the base. Yes, you can bake and mash your own, but the instant stuff has a sticky quality that makes it better suited to this “art” project. I whipped up a batch using almond milk, Earth Balance butter, and the potato flakes, and then let it cool completely.

When Veronika was finished with lunch, I spooned a huge heap of this onto her tray. She looked instantly delighted!

Set out a few props to encourage the artistic process. Veronika received a measuring cup and spoon, and soon was scooping, digging, and poking holes in it.

I showed her how to make a few “sculptural” elements, including round balls and little snakes.

I tried for a little mashed potato snowman, but Veronika didn’t let him last long!

And of course she discovered that little bites of the stuff was delicious. Eager fingers kept digging in for more, both to eat and to play!