Dollar Tree has done it again. I’m putting together some fun dollar store finds to make a tinker tray dough kit for my kids. I never know what to call them these days, dough kits, tinker kits, sensory kits, open-ended invitations to play…but either way I’m going to show you just how easy it can be. It’s not just for the “Pinterest mom”. Easily use some of these ideas to create your own dough kit for your kids too. Hope this inspires you to look at Dollar Tree in a whole new way!
Tips:
The box I use for our trays is from Dollar Tree and you can find it in the hardware section.
Buy things you know you are going to reuse or reuse things you already have. Items like lego blocks, googly eyes, beads, etc. I save mine to cycle out through the different box themes.
Box 1 – Construction Theme
For this “construction” themed one, I picked up “Turbo Wheels”. They are a cute set at Dollar Tree but tend to sell fast, so if you see them grab them. They are smaller in size so they fit in the box nicely.
I also use the Dollar Store’s dough, I kneed it to fit in the compartment shape. I also tend to wrap mine so they don’t dry up. Also, if you have seen my YouTube or other similar posts you may have noticed I tend to include multiple colors, but I chose not to for this one.
I also like to include something to build with, like the small Dollar Tree Jenga blocks, wood blocks, and glass stones from the craft section, the grey ones to look like construction blocks. I also included some little paper cups from the party supply aisle.
Box 2 – Mermaid Theme
For this one I picked up at Dollar Tree their “Mini Doll and Accessories Set” but she was small enough and had fairy and mermaid accessories that would fit to be included in this tinker tray kit. she even had hairstyles to change. She seems like a dupe for the Polly Pockets but is easier to change.
I went with blue dough for the ocean feel. I also added things to build with, like paper straws and small wooden clothes pins from the craft section. Other fun ideas, like shells or cupcake liners. I also had to include more glass beads since I had perfect blue ones on hand.
Since I had 1 more spot, I was either going to add “tube confetti” for a dough mix-in item, but ended up with cut-up yarn for a seaweed element.
Honestly, there really is no right or wrong way to make these, but for more ideas check the playlist link below.
Share what you made in the comments below!
Quick Links:
Disclaimer: The products featured in this post/video were purchased by myself or sent to me for review for free. Some videos may be sponsored by brands that I enjoy. Make sure to *ALWAYS* use discretion when deciding on age-appropriate activities and supervise your children.
MUSIC: courtesy of Soundstripe.
