Biodegradable cornstarch packing peanuts are great loose parts for creative projects, dramatic play, and sensory play. (FYI: Cornstarch seems to be the preferred starch used in biodegradable packing peanuts, but soy-based starch and other materials are used.)
The novel thing about them is that with a little moisture, they will stick together–and with a lot of moisture they will dissolve.
You can get them new in bulk, or colored by some smart companies that package them for craft projects. You can also recycle them when they show up as packing material in items shipped directly to your home or early learning program.
(Quick Tip: Touch a packing peanut to your tongue. If it feels like it’s melting, it’s a biodegradable packing peanut. If it doesn’t, it’s Styrofoam.)
Cornstarch Packing Peanuts At Play
We did a little sensory play experimenting. Peanuts were added to a bit of water and mashed until they dissolved. Then more peanuts were added and mashed until the slimy mess got thicker.
A slimy sensory play adventure:
Contribute content to Playvolution HQ
Brought to you by Explorations Early Learning
Browse Trainings
Author
Jeff Johnson is an early learning trainer, podcaster, and author who founded Explorations Early Learning, Playvolution HQ, and Play Haven.
- Jeff Johnsonhttps://playvolutionhq.com/author/jeff-johnson/
- Jeff Johnsonhttps://playvolutionhq.com/author/jeff-johnson/
- Jeff Johnsonhttps://playvolutionhq.com/author/jeff-johnson/
- Jeff Johnsonhttps://playvolutionhq.com/author/jeff-johnson/
- Jeff Johnsonhttps://playvolutionhq.com/author/jeff-johnson/
- Jeff Johnsonhttps://playvolutionhq.com/author/jeff-johnson/
In In-Person And Online Training
Learn how to book an in-person or online training for your organization on these early learning topics.
Support The Site
I participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees
by linking to Amazon.com and affiliate sites.
Thanks To Our Patrons
This post was made possible by patrons like these, who generously fund our work:
Supporters
Lissadell Greene Stephanie Goloway
Lagina Kozak Michelle Hankins
Marie Messinger Tamara L. Lakin
Fans
Jen Flemming Lizz Nolasco
Susan Warner Kelly Sigalove
Vittoria Jimerson Codee Gilbert
Monica Morrell Pam Soloman Melissa Franklin
Teresa Watson Erika Felt Autumn Peele
Melissa Taylor Jahmeela Robinson
Amber Maurina Terra Calamari Anne Jackson
Lagina Kozak Samantha Yeager-Cheevers
Elizebeth McCoy Sammy Cousens Ellen Cogan
Leave a Reply