Dried Pasta Necklaces - Sensory Play Idea

This year has been a big adjustment with many ups and downs. One thing I can appreciate is the time I get to spend with my family. With winter approaching sooner than my mind would like to admit, we will be slowly increasing our indoor activities.

Children learn through play. It develops their creativity, fine motor and cognitive skills. What I love about this activity is that you can do so much more than simply thread pasta and make pretty necklaces (although that in and of itself has so many benefits). Think outside the box. Practice colours, make shapes and even do some math!

The best part of dried pasta necklaces is seeing my children smile with pure excitement once they lay eyes on the set up, and this activity did just that!

You will need:
1 Package of uncooked pasta noodle (Preferably Penne or Rigatoni)
Food Colouring
Vinegar
Ribbon, String or Pipe Cleaners

Instructions:

1) Separate dried pasta into several Ziploc bags
2) Add in a teaspoon of vinegar and some food colouring
3) Seal the Ziploc bag and shake shake shake!
4) Let pasta dry for a day or overnight
5) Cut ribbon or string to desired lengths or lay pipe cleaners beside the noodles
6) Lay out for children to play with

Remember, be creative! Teach your children about patterns, explore different shapes, count all the colours and most importantly, have fun!