As spring approaches, I thought we'd do a fun Consult with the folks at McCormick & Co. on things you didn't know you could do with food coloring. Here are a few things kids 7-12 might enjoy creating. (McCormick, of course, recommends using McCormick Assorted Food Color):

--Funny Putty. Start with a cup of white glue in a plastic container. Add 1 cup liquid starch a little at a time, stirring constantly, along with any color of the food coloring, until the mixture is rubbery. Store in an airtight container.

--Homemade play dough. Combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 cup salt, 1 cup water and 1/4 cup cream of tartar with about 20 drops of food coloring in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes. Cool on wax paper, then knead slightly until dough is smooth. Store in an airtight container.

--Goofy Goo. Mix 2 tablespoons white glue with 2 tablespoons water in a paper cup. In another cup, mix together 1/4 cup water, 3/4 teaspoon borax laundry booster and about 10 drops food coloring. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the borax mixture into the glue mixture and stir well.

--Water colors. Instant paint! Combine 1 tablespoon white vinegar with 2 teaspoons baking soda. Slowly add 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1/4 cup glycerin. Pour 1 inch of the mixture into 6 to 8 paper cups and let dry overnight. Once they're dry, add the food coloring, making sure to use a lot, as the color isn't as deep when it dries. To use, dip a paint brush into some water, then into the paint.

We can talk about food dye and Easter eggs a little later. By the way, if you are interested in learning how to dye Easter eggs the natural way, check out this post from last year.

(Photo of play dough courtesy of McCormick & Co.)