Celebrating National Play-Doh Day with Cross-Grade Learning at St. Ann School

At St. Ann School, we believe learning is most powerful when it brings students together across ages, abilities, and backgrounds. That’s why this National Play-Doh Day, we celebrated more than just colorful creations — we celebrated connection, creativity, and community.

Our amazing 8th-grade students partnered with their Kindergarten buddies for a hands-on activity that was equal parts fun and meaningful: making Play-Doh from scratch! 

This joyful collaboration was more than a STEM activity or sensory project — it was a living example of our school's commitment to mentorship and whole-child development.

Bigs Leading Littles

As our eighth graders guided the littlest learners through measuring, mixing, and molding, something special unfolded. The older students stepped up as leaders, mentors, and patient teachers, while the younger ones beamed with excitement, curiosity, and trust.

It was heartwarming to watch these inter-grade partnerships in action — and a beautiful reminder that leadership starts with compassion and care.

“Watching our students work side by side — the oldest guiding the youngest — was a powerful reflection of the values we hold dear: respect, responsibility, and relationship,” said Mrs. Talbert, 8th graders teacher.

More Than Play

Though it may look like fun and games (and it absolutely was!), Play-Doh is also a learning powerhouse:

• ✨ Fine motor skill development
• Early science and math concepts (measuring, mixing, observing changes)
• Creative expression
• Collaborative problem-solving
• Language and social skills

These “soft skills” are foundational building blocks for future academic success — and what better way to explore them than through joyful, hands-on learning?

Learning Together, Growing Together

At St. Ann School, we’re proud to cultivate an environment where students lead with love and learn with joy. From the first day of Kindergarten to the last day of 8th grade, we’re building a community where every student is known, valued, and inspired to grow — academically, spiritually, and socially.

We believe that when older students have opportunities to lead and younger students feel supported and seen, everyone rises.

On National Play-Doh Day, we didn’t just make dough —
We made memories.
We made connections.
We made something truly meaningful.

Check out photos and videos from this special day below.

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 Want to learn more about our hands-on learning approach?

Visit our Academics or Admissions pages to see how St. Ann School helps students thrive — from curious Kindergartners to confident graduates.

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