How old should children be in order to play with gelatin?

Because gelatin is safe to eat, this flower dig activity is safe for young children who have a tendency to put everything in their mouths (assuming you use edible flowers and provide adequate supervision). That being said, gelatin has a semi-solid texture that can pose a choking hazard for infants, and as a result, it shouldn't be given to children who aren't ready for solid food. We recommend waiting until your child is at least 6 to 9 months old before attempting this activity, and making sure to supervise them closely as they play. If you do have a young child at home and you are worried that they will choke on the jelly, consider reducing the quantity of gelatin powder to give the jelly a softer consistency that they are less likely to choke on.

Which flowers are safe for children to play with?

When choosing flowers to use for sensory play, make sure to pick flowers that are non-toxic (or edible) and that haven't been treated with pesticides or harsh chemicals. Some good edible flower options include dandelions, sunflowers, lavender, clover flowers, rose petals, strawberry flowers, violets, begonias, chamomile, hibiscus and lilac. Please note that you may need to adjust the recipe quantities if using larger flowers that are too big to be covered with the gelatin mixture. If you wish, you can also add other edible plants or leaves, such as clovers, fennel, mint or dandelions leaves.

Spring Crafts and Activities

What better way to celebrate the end of winter than by doing some awesome Spring Crafts and Activities with your kids? Browse our archives to find the perfect project to do in March, April or May.

Need suggestions? This Butterfly Suncatcher Craft is both gorgeous and easy to make. We also love these Bubble Wrap Butterflies made using recycled bubble wrap. If you’re looking for something that you can just download and print, this Spring I Spy Game is the perfect rainy day activity for kids.

Jell-O Flower Dig

Hand holding a gelatin-covered dandelion using jumbo tweezers.

If you’ve been looking for a fun way to use the flowers growing in your yard, try this Jell-O flower dig! This simple sensory bin is taste-safe, easy to prep …

Hand holding up a lion craft with a mane made from yellow dandelions.

This “dande-lion” threading craft is the perfect way to use up those dandelions that are taking over your yard, all while providing a fun opportunity to practice fine motor skills. …

If your child enjoys crafting and painting, they’ll love these Q-tip painted dandelions! This cute craft is fun to make, only requires a few simple supplies, and is appropriate for …

Looking for a fun way to use those dandelions growing in your yard? This frozen dandelion sensory bin is inexpensive, taste-safe, easy to prep and fun for kids of all …

This free printable spring bucket list is perfect for families who are looking for easy activities to celebrate the arrival of spring! It features over 100 ideas that are appropriate …

Sensory bin with fake frogs, lily pads, rocks and frog eggs.

Looking for a fun new sensory bin idea for your child? This frog spawn sensory bin is taste-safe, simple to prep, and offers a unique combination of textures that is …

Looking for a fun spring-themed activity to keep your little ones entertained? This free printable spring I Spy sheet is easy, low-prep and perfect for kids of all ages! Grab the worksheet below and …

Ball of dandelion play dough surrounded by yellow dandelion flowers.

Do your kids love picking dandelions? Extend the fun by whipping up a batch of dandelion play dough for them to play with! This easy homemade play dough is naturally …

Mockup of spring counting puzzle printable with two puzzles.

Looking for a fun, hands-on way to teach your little one to count? These free printable bug counting puzzles are SO cute, and they’re a great way to help toddlers and preschoolers learn to recognize numbers …

Looking for an easy craft to celebrate the arrival of summer? This colorful butterfly suncatcher is sure to brighten up any window—and it includes a free template for you to …

Jell-O Flower Dig

“Dande-Lion” Threading Craft (with Free Template!)

Q-Tip Painted Dandelions

Frozen Dandelion Sensory Play

Free Printable Spring Bucket List (100+ Ideas!)

Frog Spawn Sensory Bin

Free Printable Spring I Spy Game (+ Answer Key!)

Dandelion Play Dough (Naturally Dyed!)

Free Printable Bug Counting Puzzles {1-10 Number Sequence}

Butterfly Suncatcher Craft (with Free Template!)