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Printable Play-Doh mats for actions and shape-making

Play-Doh Actions & Shape Mats (42 Mats, 3 Languages)

Designed and sold by The Resource Roost

A printable Play-Doh resource designed to support hands-on learning through simple actions, shape-making, and guided conversation.

Often used alongside Verb Cards in 3 Visual Styles to reinforce action words through hands-on play. This resource is included in The Big Five – a foundational set of Roost Originals.

Designed by The Resource Roost

Every Roost Original is created to encourage meaningful conversation, playful learning and practical support at home, in classrooms and therapy settings.

R 15.00
Please note: This is a digital product. Due to the nature of digital downloads, refunds are not available once files have been accessed. If you have questions before purchasing, you are welcome to get in touch.
About this resource

This Roost Original was created to support early learning through hands-on, sensory play using Play-Doh as the central tool.

Children are guided to roll, poke, press, and cut while modelling simple shapes, pairing movement with language in a natural and engaging way. Each mat includes a gentle “Let’s talk” prompt to encourage observation, everyday vocabulary, and shared conversation during play.

Available in English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa, this resource is designed to remain open-ended, allowing adults to adapt language, prompts, and support based on the child’s level of communication.

Suggested age range

2.5–6 years

Designed for hands-on exploration, early language, and shape recognition through play.

Why:

  • Under 3 with supervision
  • Up to 6 for shape discussion and action language
What you get

You will receive a complete digital bundle, ready to download and print.

Included in this resource:

  • 7 printable PDF files
  • 1 intro sheet with guidance for use
  • 42 individual Play-Doh mats in total
What’s inside the bundle

Action Mats (8 per language)

  • English: 8 Play-Doh action mats
  • Afrikaans: 8 Play-Doh action mats
  • isiXhosa: 8 Play-Doh action mats

Shape Mats (6 per language)

  • English: 6 Play-Doh shape mats
  • Afrikaans: 6 Play-Doh shape mats
  • isiXhosa: 6 Play-Doh shape mats

Each set is supplied as a separate, print-ready PDF so you can use one language or mix and match as needed.

Why this resource works

Play-Doh offers natural resistance, movement, and sensory feedback, making it ideal for early learning and communication support.

This resource is designed to:

  • Pair action words with physical movement
  • Support early shape recognition through hands-on modelling
  • Encourage shared attention and conversation through simple prompts
  • Remain open-ended so language can be simplified or expanded as needed

The focus is not on “doing it right”, but on interaction, exploration, and communication during play.

How it’s used
  • During free play, therapy sessions, or structured learning time
  • Supporting early language, fine motor skills, and observation
  • Used one-on-one or in small groups
  • Repeated often, with different language each time

There is no single correct way to use this resource. It is designed to adapt to the child.

Format and access
  • Digital download sent after purchase
  • PDF files
  • Print at home or professionally
  • Reusable and durable when laminated

No physical items will be shipped.

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