Get ready for a delightful and creative at-home activity that your children aged 5-11 will absolutely love—creating Salt Dough Decorations for their bedrooms! This fun and hands-on project allows your child to express their artistic flair while making personalized decorations to add a special touch to their space.

Materials Needed:

1. All-purpose flour

2. Salt

3. Water

4. Mixing bowls

5. Rolling pin

6. Cookie cutters or molds

7. Acrylic paints

8. Paintbrushes

9. Clear sealant or varnish (optional)

10. Ribbon or twine for hanging (if desired)

Activity Overview:

Step 1: Making Salt Dough

- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of salt.

- Gradually add 1 cup of water and mix until a dough forms.

- Knead the dough on a floured surface until it's smooth and pliable.

Step 2: Shaping the Decorations

- Preheat your oven to 93°C / Gas Mark 5.

- Roll out the salt dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.

- Use cookie cutters or molds to create various shapes for decorations. Encourage your child to get creative with their designs.

Step 3: Baking

- Place the shaped salt dough decorations on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 2-3 hours or until the decorations are completely dry. The time may vary based on thickness.

Step 4: Decorating

- Once the salt dough decorations are cool, it's time to unleash your child's artistic talents. Provide acrylic paints and brushes for them to paint and decorate their creations. Let the paint dry completely.

Step 5: Optional Finishing Touches

- If desired, apply a clear sealant or varnish to protect the decorations and give them a shiny finish.

- Attach ribbon or twine for hanging if the decorations are intended for wall display.

Step 6: Display and Enjoy

- Find the perfect spots in your child's bedroom to showcase their handmade salt dough decorations. Whether on walls, shelves, or hanging from the ceiling, these personalized creations will add a special touch to their space.

Benefits of the Activity

- Encourages creativity and self-expression

- Develops fine motor skills through shaping and painting

- Fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment

- Creates personalized décor for your child's bedroom

- Provides a bonding activity for parents and children

We hope you and your child enjoy the process of creating these wonderful salt dough decorations. May their bedrooms be filled with the joy and warmth of their handmade masterpieces!

Happy crafting!