The "Playdough Mom"
I don't remember having a "room mom" when I was growing up. We went to school, saw our teacher, then went home to our family. I don't even know when it happened...that it was common practice for stay-at-home or part-time working moms to spend their free time at their child's school. Being "class mom" is not the role I sign up for during open house each year, but I do envy those parents.
making playdough over the years, they always look forward to being involved!
That being said, I pause to question what exactly I wish I had. Is it the free time they have in their day...to spend it however they want? Or is it the opportunity to watch their child in an unfamiliar setting, amongst their own friends? Either way, my blue eyes take on a green hue just thinking about it.
our little guy with his new teacher; following in his big brothers footsteps.
While I may not be at school once a week, I do want my boys to remember I was active in their education. I pack their lunches, go over spelling words and math problems, talk about their day during dinnertime and read books before bed. (I also save box tops for the grade-level contest like it's an Olympic sport!) However, once a month (only during their pre-kindergarten year) I volunteer to be the "play-dough mom"! That's right, my little one and I stand over the stove for 5 minutes each month anticipating that mushy mound; the colorful blob he will proudly present to his class, exclaiming what scent he has chosen and why. I'm always in the kitchen it seems, so why not? The smile on my son's face after we stir it all together could light up a room! I love knowing I helped create that memory for him.
homemade playdough is super soft, easy to make and smells amazing!
Some schools have already had their open house, others are coming up this week. So, if you're also a working mom whose free time is stretched thin, don't be so hesitant to volunteer...just choose wisely! Turn that precious quality time with your child into an opportunity for school involvement as well. You don't have to be there every other day, or even once a week to have the teacher be appreciative of your help!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all purpose flour,
- 1/3 cup table salt,
- 2 tsp cream of tartar,
- 1 cup water,
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil,
- EITHER food coloring OR 1 small pkg sugar free jello in any flavor.
Directions:
Mix all ingredients together in a medium saucepan (using a silicone coated spoon works best). Cook and stir for about three to five minutes or until it all pulls together and looks smooth. Turn out onto silicone mat or parchment paper until it cools. Store in a ziploc baggie. Have fun!
homemade play dough fun, at school!
