Two Ingredient Pumpkin Play Dough Recipe, Great Activity to do With Kids in the Fall.
Fall is the perfect time to slow down, get a little messy, and make something fun together. This simple pumpkin play-dough recipe is a fantastic activity for parents, grandparents, and caregivers to do with kids β and it only takes two ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. πβ¨
Whether youβre baking pumpkin bread or decorating for the season, this activity is a wonderful way to build connection, encourage sensory play, and create lasting memories together.
What Youβll Need
1 can of pumpkin (15 oz)
2 Β½ cups of cornstarch
Thatβs it! No cooking, no complicated steps β just mix, knead, and play.
What You’ll Do
Combine the ingredients in a large bowl. Add the canned pumpkin first, then slowly stir in the cornstarch.
Mix until it forms a dough. It may feel a little sticky at first β just keep adding small amounts of cornstarch until you reach a soft, moldable texture.
Knead the dough with your hands for a minute or two to make it smooth.
Play! Kids can roll it, flatten it with cookie cutters, or shape their own pumpkin creations.
π Storage Tip: Keep the play-dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3β5 days. Let it warm up a bit before playing again.
Why This Activity Matters
Pumpkin play-dough isnβt just about making a mess (although that part is fun!). Sensory play helps kids:
Build fine motor skills through squishing, rolling, and shaping
Develop confidence as they create something themselves
Strengthen language skills by describing textures, shapes, and smells
Deepen their connection with caregivers through quality shared time
Activities like this give parents and grandparents an easy, meaningful way to pause the rush and be present with kids β something that truly matters in every season.
More Play-Dough Fun
Pumpkin play-dough is just one of many types of dough you can make at home:
Salt Dough β great for ornaments and keepsakes
Cloud Dough β soft and fluffy, perfect for sensory bins
π You can find both of these recipes right here on our website under DIY Play Activities. Each one offers a different sensory experience and a fresh way to bond with kids through hands-on creativity.
β¨ Final Thought
Sometimes the best fall memories are made not with big plans, but with a bowl, a spoon, and a handful of ingredients. Making pumpkin play-dough is a simple, screen-free activity that encourages kids to explore, create, and connect β one squishy pumpkin ball at a time.
