oshc activities
Wellbeing Wednesday / Calming Scented Playdough

Calming Scented Playdough

Children squeeze, roll and shape soft scented playdough as a calming sensory activity during quiet time.

How to run it

  1. Make or buy playdough and add a child-safe scent such as vanilla essence or dried lavender.
  2. Set up a quiet table with rollers and cutters.
  3. Invite children to squeeze, roll and shape the dough slowly.
  4. Encourage slow breathing and noticing the smell and feel of the dough.

You will need

  • playdough
  • vanilla essence or dried lavender
  • rollers
  • cutters
Make it easier or harderYounger children can use cutters; older children can make the dough themselves.
SafetyUse food-grade scents rather than essential oils, which can irritate skin; check for wheat allergies.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 3Calm sensory play helps children regulate emotions and relax.

Fits these theme days

Wellbeing WednesdaySensory DayMindfulness DayPamper and Zen DayBefore School Calm Start

More like this

ANZAC Day · Remembrance Day · Mindfulness Day +1

Minute of Quiet Reflection

Children take part in a respectful minute of silence and a gentle conversation about why people remember those who served.

IndoorCalmGrab-and-goPrep to Year 6Aquatic Adventure · Under the Sea · Science Week +3

Ocean Fizz Bath Bombs

Older children mix and mould blue fizzing bath bombs with a small sea creature toy hidden inside, exploring a simple acid and base reaction.

IndoorCalmSome prepYears 4 to 6Art Attack Day · Big Kids Club · Café Day +2

Paint and Juice Session

Older children enjoy a relaxed canvas painting session with juice or mocktails, combining creativity with a social, café-style atmosphere.

IndoorCalmSome prepYears 4 to 6At the Building Site · Sensory Day · Messy Play Day +2

Grey Concrete Playdough Site

Younger children squash, dig and scoop grey playdough with toy diggers, creating a pretend construction site.

IndoorCalmGrab-and-goPrep to Year 3