Ooglies
Purpose
A craft activity which encourages a sibling to talk about him/herself in an indirect way. Many children find it much easier to express things in this way – it is not them speaking, it's the Ooglie, so it seems less threatening and personal. Also they are in complete control over what they choose to share – some will produce good science fiction, others will talk about very personal issues.
You will need
Playdough in different colours (see recipe below)
Extra decorating materials such as wool, feathers, dried spaghetti/peas (optional)
How to do it
The sibling and you make anything you like – animal, person, monster … Ooglies are in essence whatever you want them to be!
While working on your Ooglie, talk about it, looking at issues like:
Where does your Ooglie come from?
Does it have a name?
What is your Ooglie's favourite thing (food, TV programme, book, activity …)?
What would your Ooglie wish for?
Where would your Ooglie go on holiday?
What is your Ooglie afraid of?
Who is your Ooglie's best friend?
Encourage the sibling to respond with similar issues about his/her Ooglie
Playdough Recipe
2 cups flour
1 cup salt
2 teaspoons Cream of Tartar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups water
Put all ingredients except the salt in a saucepan, stir then add the salt (this avoids scratching a non-stick pan!)
Heat and stir, until cooked.
Divide into portions and add a different food colouring to each, kneading in well.
Allow to cool, then store wrapped in plastic, preferably in the fridge – it will keep several months.
If the dough seems too dry, knead in a little extra oil
It is food-safe – just horribly salty!
