8mo–20mo10 minArtFree playFamily time
Gloop Dip, Lift & Swirl
A contained gloop sensory activity where your child dips fingers in, lifts them out, and explores mark-making and gentle pinch-and-sprinkle play with close supervision.
What you'll need
Essentials
- cornflour (cornstarch) and water
- a shallow tray or baking dish (small enough to control the mess)
- a towel (for under the tray and wiping hands)
Nice to have
- a spare bowl for rinsing hands
- an apron or an old t-shirt
Movement level: low
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneExplores or responds to texturesBody· 6mo–12mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneShows interest in making marksMind· 10mo–18mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneScribbles or makes marksBody· 12mo–22mo· core
- MilestoneHas a strong exploratory impulse.Mind· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneApplies pincer grip in tasksBody· 12mo–2y· core· Step 4
- MilestonePincer grasp for small objectsBody· 8mo–12mo· stretch
- MilestonePicks up tiny itemsBody· 9mo–16mo· stretch· Step 4
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Use gloop (cornflour and water) in small trays so that babies can enjoy putting fingers into it and lifting them out.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)