In a large pot mix the dry ingredients.  In a separate bowl, mix all the wet ingredients except the food colouring.

Add the wet to the dry and put over a medium flame stirring constantly.

As you stir the dough will form a ball and pull away from the sides (2-3 minutes). When this happens remove from the heat and allow to cool.

When cool give each child a mound of play dough.

Let the child/ren put a thumbprint in the top. Add the colour. Knead the dough until the colour is dispersed and the texture is smooth. Add essence as desired.

Store in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator