When I had my first child, my sister, Beth, sent me her recipe for play dough. It’s super fast and easy to throw together and keeps the kids entertained for hours.

1 cup all-purpose flour1/2 cup table salt1 Tablespoon canola or vegetable oil1 Tablespoon alum or cream or tartar1 cup boiling waterFood coloringglitter (if you’re feeling brave)

In a bowl, combine first 4 ingredients. Carefully add the boiling water and food coloring. Combine until the dough comes together and is soft and pliable. Knead in glitter, if using. Provide rolling pins, biscuit or cookie cutters, and bread knives.Store in a sealed plastic bag or glass jar.