Taste Safe Gelatin Squish Play

Flavored gelatin mix (Jell-O or any brand)

A shallow baking pan

A high chair with a tray

A bib or smock

Prepare flavored gelatin according to the package but use a little extra gelatin powder for a firmer set.

Pour into a shallow baking pan and refrigerate for at least four hours (overnight is easiest).

Once set, cut the gelatin into big cubes or use cookie cutters for shapes.

Place the pieces on your baby's high chair tray.

Let your baby touch, poke, squeeze, and explore the jiggly texture freely.

Squish a piece yourself to model the fun — the wobbling always gets a reaction.

Since it's completely taste-safe, let your baby mouth and eat it as much as they want.

Make two colors for a more visually stimulating experience — try red and yellow, or blue and green.

The cold temperature from the fridge adds another sensory dimension. Some babies startle at first, then love it.

Use sugar-free gelatin if you prefer less sugar, or make your own with fruit juice and unflavored gelatin packets.

Strip baby down to a diaper for this one — it gets gloriously messy.

Hide small pieces of soft fruit inside the gelatin before it sets for a surprise excavation game.