CU 8.03Clay
The child works with play dough and then real clay, learning to roll, pinch, and build simple forms.
Age 3½–6Work 3 of 5 in Art
Presentation
- 1
Show how to take a ball of clay from the container and close the lid.
- 2
Roll the clay between the palms to make a ball.
- 3
Roll it on the mat to make a coil.
- 4
Press the thumb into a ball and pinch around the edge to make a pinch pot.
- 5
Invite the child to work freely.
- 6
Show how to return the clay to the container or place a finished piece on the drying shelf.
- 7
Wipe the mat and hands with the damp cloth.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Coil pot: stack coils to build a small pot
- Make an animal from the zoology study
- Press leaves or shells for texture
- Paint a dried piece
Control of error
The clay shows its shape directly: cracks show it is too dry, and sticking shows it is too wet.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Makes a ball, coil, and pinch pot
- Returns clay and cleans up independently
- Creates an original form
Guide note
Check play dough recipes for gluten if a child has celiac disease.