This simple moon sand recipe uses coconut oil. We then scent it with taste safe ingredients. It’s the perfect sensory activity for kids of all ages, even toddlers!

What is moon sand?

Whether you call it moon dough, cloud dough, or kinetic sand; moon sand is a fun sensory experience for kids of all ages. It has a crumbly texture, yet it can be molded into fun shapes. Scoop it, build with it, form it into balls. It’s an amazing activity that is sure to keep your kids entertained.

Since our kids love playing with sensory textures like our foam sink, or colored salt; we knew they would love playing with moon sand!

You can find lots of different recipes around the web on how to make moon sand at home. After reading quite a few, I knew I needed to figure out how to make moon sand without baby oil. You see, I wanted to make sure I had a taste safe version of this fun sensory activity.

This way it can be a fun activity for toddlers and up!

Ever since doing research for the book I co-authored, The Undeniable Power of Play, I know how important sensory play can be for a child. I also learned how engaging multiple senses is even better. So I added a fun scent using lemon zest!

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission.

No time to make this sensory project now? Pin it for later!

If you can’t make this kinetic sand now, pin it to your favorite board on Pinterest and it’ll be here for when you’re ready.

Tips for moon dough success!

• This activity is best when it’s child-led. Let them explore the feeling of pressing their hands into the dough, making shapes, even building a snowman!
• The lemon scent doesn’t have to mean yellow moon sand! Feel free to make blue, red, or even purple!
• Grab spoons, scoops, playdough toys, and more to add another level to the play.
• Have a group of kiddos? Double the batch for more fun!
• Make sure to seal it up when you’re done playing so that it’s ready to go for the next time!
• Don’t forget that this recipe includes oil. So it’s best to not wear your best clothes while playing.
• Worried about cleanup? Grab a plastic tablecloth for quick cleanup.

Here are some pictures of V playing with her cloud dough.

What to do with moon sand

Moon sand is perfect for loads of occasions. Here are just a few ideas to inspire you.

• A sensory station during space week.
• Add it to an animal sensory bin.
• Make multiple batches for a toddler birthday party or BBQ with families.
• Or just a fun afternoon activity.

How to make moon sand

Below is our step by step tutorial on how to make moon sand. Feel free to print them for easy reference!

More rainbow projects you will love!

• Quick colored salt – You’ll be amazed how easy it is to create colorful sensory salt.
• Fill your sink with foam – It has to be the easiest sensory play there is!
• Looking for a challenge? Join this free 7 day activity challenge for kids!

If you loved this sensory project, share it by pinning or sharing on Facebook.

We are thankful for every share! Each time someone shares our posts, our site grows and we are so thankful that we can continue to create unique and simple projects for kids. Know a friend who’d like this moon sand recipe? Please share it on Facebook or save it to your board on Pinterest.