No-Bake Clay

What You Do:

Mix a few drops of food coloring into the water and stir until combined. Then put the water, baking soda, and cornstarch into a saucepan and cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until the mixture feels like cooked mashed potatoes. Remove from heat, put it onto a paper plate, and cover with a damp towel until cool. Repeat this process for any additional colors you'd like to use.

When the mixtures are cool, knead them until the clay feels smooth and pliable. Then cover the kitchen table with newspaper, sit your child down, and give him a go! Depending on the time of year, he can sculpt something with a holiday theme (like a snowman, a pumpkin, a ghost, or a flag) or he can just use his imagination and create something with nothing to do with the holidays (fruit, shapes, a car). Whatever he creates, let it dry overnight. In the morning, it will be ready for final paint and decorations.