Most toddlers, when given a piece of ordinary soft pottery clay, are instinctively motivated to explore its inviting soft sensory qualities.  They poke it, squeeze it, hit it, pick it up and pound it down, and the clay adjusts and responds.  These changes mean very little to us as adults, but for a toddler these changes in the clay are magical.  Marvin Bartel explains how children are naturally fascinated, motivated, and empowered to keep experimenting.

Early childhood educator, Seyon Verdtzabella, explores how his children become more motivated and engaged in learning by investigating clay.

Various ideas from Nadine Howard on the sensory benefits of malleable materials.

Hints and Tips from The Artful Parent on modelling with air dry clay

Early years artist, Ammie Flexen, shares lots of ideas on the use of clay in creative learning play

Exploring the different ways (and benefits) of working with playdough or clay in its natural form and introducing materials later.

What's not to love about play dough? A super sensory material that's fun, versatile and offers so many learning opportunities.  Lots of ideas on using Playdough on Pinterest.