Coffee "Earth" Play Dough

We initially started off with this activity to make fossils since had some great shells from a sluicing kit. Rather than label this as fossil dough, we would call it Earth Play Dough. Given the materials provided, the children chose to play with the dough in a more varied way, including fossils. As always, we love easy, low cost activities using upcycled ingredients and this fits the bill.

You will need:
1 cup of flour
1/2 cup salt
1 cup used coffee grounds (roughly from 2 full pots of 12 c coffee maker)
about 1/2 cup cold coffee
loose parts to extend play

Mix all ingredients in a container. The dough shouldn't be sticky but will be a little tacky.
If it's sticky add more flour.

Finish by kneading on table and providing loose parts. We provided shells and gems from a sluicing kit, dinosaur and forest animal figurines and shale river rocks. The dough is slightly rough and aromatic (mmmm coffee) providing additional sensory input.

Store in the refrigerator for about a week.