If you’re looking for an easy DIY sensory activity, this fake snow recipe using shaving cream and baking soda is perfect! It’s simple to make, feels cool like real snow, and offers endless opportunities for imaginative play.
Fake Snow Recipe Materials
You’ll only need two common household items to make this icy creation:
- 2 cups of baking soda*
- 1 cup of shaving cream (I don’t know if you can use the gel kind. I used the plain ol’ cheapest foamy shaving cream)
Optional:
- A splash of glitter for those kids who love a touch of sparkle. We use the eco friendly silver.
Instructions to Create DIY Fake Snow
- Pour the baking soda into a bowl or sensory bin.
- Slowly add the shaving cream to the baking soda.
- Mix with your hands or a spatula until the texture resembles crumbly, moldable snow. Adjust the consistency by adding more shaving cream for stickiness or more baking soda for a drier texture.
- Voilà—your fake snow is ready! It’s cool to the touch and holds well for shaping into mini snowballs or building sculptures.
Cleaning Tip: Don’t worry if things get messy—both baking soda and shaving cream clean up easily with water.
Creative Play Ideas with Fake Snow
Now that you’ve whipped up a batch, here are some ways to keep your child entertained for hours:
- Build a Snowman: Provide mini props like buttons, beads, and twigs to accessorize a pretend snowman.
- Treasure Hunt: Bury small objects like plastic animals or figurines in the snow and turn it into a digging adventure.
- Ice Cream Parlor Play: Give your child some scoops, bowls, and spoons to create their “sweet” treats.
- Sensory Exploration: Simply encourage your child to squeeze, crumble, and mold the snow, exploring the texture and properties.
Items to Enhance Playtime with Fake Snow
Here’s a list of items you might want to include to make playtime even more engaging:
- Plastic figurines or small toys (like sleds or snow animals)
- Cookie cutters for creating fun shapes
- Mini shovels, scoops, or spoons for digging
- A sensory tray or deep bin to contain the mess
Tips for Sensory Play Success
- Encourage your little one’s curiosity by asking questions like, “How does it feel?” or “What can you build with this?”
- Set up the activity on a wipeable surface or use a large plastic tablecloth to help with cleanup.
- Store the snow in an airtight container to reuse it for the next day (though it’s best used fresh for the fluffiest texture).
Combining creativity with hands-on learning, this fake snow recipe is a fantastic way to keep little ones entertained while supporting their development. Gather your ingredients and start building your snowy sensory wonderland today!
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