Holding the Universe in our Hands-Calming activity

Transitions can be tough for everybody and the transition from holidays to going back to school is no exception.  Many children will be excited about going back to school tomorrow but for those children that get anxious about change or the potential unknown holding themselves together today might be a struggle.

This easy to prepare activity gives children of all ages (and their adults) an opportunity to sit, relax, chat and be creative together.  Its specially ideal for a before bed wind down, and a way to busy hands so that its easier to discuss any worries and plan some strategies around how they might manage them.

Easiest No Cook Play Dough Recipe 

2 cups flour
1/2 cup salt
2 tablespoons cooking oil
2 tablespoons cream of tartar
2 cups boiling water
1 teaspoon black food colouring 
A few drops lavender essential oil

Mix all dry ingredients, add oil and boiling water with food colouring, mix well. (Store in an airtight container.)

Add a few treasures collected from pockets, kitchen drawers and under the bed and create an ever changing solar system that fits in your hand.

Teachers, perhaps this could be an easy, low key story starter literacy activity for the start of the new term, especially if you add a few rockets and aliens to the mix.