This modeling clay activity combines science and art in a hands-on STEAM activity for preschoolers. Explore shapes and colors with fine motor tools in this simple modeling clay math activity. 

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Modeling clay is a wonderful medium for kids activities. It can be squished, stretched, twisted and rolled, and still hold its shape!

Because it's so flexible, kids can experiment making shapes in modeling clay with a variety of tools.

• Everyday tools from the sandbox, the craft box or the kitchen can be used in creative ways with little or no instruction. This means the activity will be mostly child-led.

Modeling clay is firmer than regular play dough, so it can be used in different ways, with different outcomes.

As they play, kids exercise fine motor and math skills while enjoying sensory experiences with the different colors and textures of materials. 

Related: Fine Motor Play with Modeling Clay

Support early learning skills with this fun modeling clay activity that is easy to set up and practically mess free.

Modeling clay shapes

In this activity, kids experiment with simple tools to make shapes in modeling clay, then remove the shapes from the clay palette.  

Choose everyday fine motor tools that engage kids fingers and hands.

Kids observe how effective each tool is for drawing, pressing, digging and cutting.

Supplies for modeling clay activity

For this activity, provide different colors of modeling clay and a variety of tools such as scissors and craft sticks. Having options challenges early learners to make choices, comparisons, and conclusions. 

Materials to include:

• modeling clay
• scissors
• craft stick
• tongs or tweezers
• spatula or shovel
• ruler

Instructions for modeling clay activity

Here are a few ideas for play with this activity.

Flatten clay with fingers and palms of the hands to create a smooth surface on which to draw.

Select a tool to draw a shape in the clay.

Measure a shape with the ruler.

Cut out a shape with scissors.

To erase a shape, simple squeeze the modeling clay into a ball, or push into the surface of the clay with finger tips.

Notice how your hands and fingers are being used as tools to erase a drawing in the clay.

Flatten the clay and begin drawing shapes again!

There are lots of options for science and art in this activity, along with fine motor and sensory experiences.

Kids can experiment with the size and color of shapes, the thickness of the shapes, and number of shapes.

Related: Play Dough, Slime and More! Pinterest Board

 How principles of STEAM are evident in this activity

• Technology: experiment with different tools to draw and remove the shapes
• Art: use different clay colors to make shapes
• Math: count the number of lines needed to make each shape