By Dorie
Dear Dorie, My toddler won’t stop eating play-doh. I don’t mean a nibble here and a nibble there, I’m talking he would eat the whole container if I let him. When he’s got a mouthful he will play with it in the typical fashion (molds, balls, etc.), and seems to really enjoy it. I’m just concerned about the stuff in his tummy. Any ideas?
Yummy Play-doh-eater Mummy Dear Mummy, Play-doh, whether commercial or home-made, is non-toxic so ingestion won’t harm your loved one. That said, I’ve seen many children “inhale” crayons, play-doh, soap, etc. and there are a few things you can do. First, stay with your toddler and supervise when the play-doh comes out. This is not the time to pay bills or make phone calls. Second, have his favorite edibles nearby and ready to eat. Next, memorize the phrase, “It looks like you want something to eat.” When the play-doh goes in the mouth, use the phrase and provide the right alternative. Move the play-doh away until he’s finished eating and try again. Above all, do this with respect and patience — no judgement or guilt please, this is not a serious or life-threatening situation. I’ve never met a kindergartner that still ate this stuff. Good luck. (Dorie Meek is director of the Infant & Family Support Program, provided by Saint John’s Health Center in partnership with the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. Meek answers questions concerning children ages birth to 5 years old. Submit your questions to “Dear Dorie” at, or call (310) 452-6132; fax (310) 452-6392).
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on January 18, 2005. Read the original PDF.