The Power of Sensory Play: What We’re Learning (and Loving) at Slime Minister

At Slime Minister, sensory play is more than just something we make, it’s something we live. As a family-run business in Aotearoa with a neurodivergent child at the heart of it all, we know first-hand how powerful the right sensory tools can be. Slime is obviously one of our favourites, but it’s only part of the picture when it comes to helping our son regulate his body, emotion, and energy.

Recently, we were lucky enough to receive a sensory box from We Are Equal, a beautiful new New Zealand business. Inside were Montessori-style stacking stones in bold, bright colours, a chew necklace, a sensory shaker bottle, a see-through shimmery cloth, a fidget bar, and worry stones. Our son gravitated immediately to the stacking stones and chew necklace. These kinds of tools aren’t just for kids, they offer comfort and support to anyone who needs a moment to ground themselves.

Supporting sensory needs is complex. Our son is mostly a sensory seeker, he loves deep pressure, texture, and movement, but there are also things that dysregulate him. Spinning or bouncing on the trampoline, for example, can tip him over the edge. Hanging, stretching, and squeezing tend to bring calm. This is why variety matters. Sensory tools are not one-size-fits-all. What works for one child, or even one day, might not help the next. Having a toolkit to choose from gives our kids options and autonomy, and it helps us respond to their needs in real time.

Sensory play builds brain-body connections. It supports focus, emotional regulation, fine motor development, and a stronger sense of self. Slime is one of those tools that ticks so many boxes. It’s playful, tactile, endlessly engaging, and helps bring our son back into his body when he’s feeling scattered.

We’ll be proudly linking to We Are Equal when Sarah launches her website. It’s businesses like hers, grounded in lived experience, thoughtfulness, and care, that remind us how many ways there are to support our tamariki. We’ll always champion fellow New Zealand makers in the sensory space, and we’re so glad to have connected with her. Follow We Are Equal on Instagram here and watch this space!

Messy Rainbows & Slime Dreams: A Sensory Adventure at Adventure Alley

There’s something magical about finding people who just get it. The joy of sensory play, the power of inclusive spaces, and the importance of meeting kids exactly where they’re at. That’s why visiting Messy Rainbows at Adventure Alley felt like a big warm hug wrapped in colour and kindness.

Run by the powerhouse that is Carlie, Messy Rainbows is a creative, sensory-based business that’s proudly neurodivergent-affirming. From calm corners to messy masterpieces, her setup is designed with care and intention, a space where kids (and adults) can explore, regulate, express, and connect.

It’s perfect for curious little minds to dig in, get messy, and follow their sensory joy, and even better for parents who’d love to let someone else’s parent handle the cleanup (thanks Carlie, you legend).

We felt so at home in the chaos (the good kind) where gooey textures, glitters, and colour play all had a purpose. It reminded us so much of why we do what we do at Slime Minister: to make space for sensory joy, one whiff and squish at a time.

And now? We’re dreaming up ways to join forces. Because when two sensory-loving minds come together, you never know what creative mischief might happen.

Do you have ideas for how Messy Rainbows could collaborate? We’d love to hear them. Drop us a DM or comment below, nothing’s too messy or too wild ✨

Check out Messy Rainbows on Instagram and show them some love. Trust us, your nervous system will thank you.

Seasonal Slime Ideas: Winter Edition

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean your play needs to freeze up. Slime is the perfect indoor sensory play for winter. It’s hands-on, low-mess (mostly, if you play on a hard surface), and cosy creative. Whether you’re curled up at home, hosting a rainy-day playdate, or looking for ways to keep your sensory seeker engaged while the weather does its thing, we’ve got your slime inspo sorted.

❄️ 1. Ambrosia but Make It Icy

Inspired by the classic Kiwi dessert, Ambrosia Dream is part of our Good Enough to Eat (But Please Don’t) range. Chill your slime (literally!) in the fridge for a few minutes before play. The cool texture adds a whole new sensory layer, and the soft pastel swirls are giving major winter dessert vibes.

Pro tip: Add small white foam beads for a “snowberry” effect.

🌬️ 2. Cool Whiff: The OG Winter Scent

This bouncy, fluffy OG slime smells like a fresh breeze and plays like a dream. It’s the one for stretching long, frosty ribbons and swirling up ASMR magic. Think icy mornings, misty windows, and quiet, but in slime form.

Want to turn it into a winter sensory activity? Try:

• Adding a few drops of safe glitter (silver, white, light blue)

• Pairing with soft textures (fake fur, cotton balls) in a tactile tray

• Playing while listening to rain sounds or a lo-fi wintery playlist

🔥 3. Winter Warm-Up Station

Create a “Slime & Story” corner at home:

• Choose a warm-toned slime like Vanilla Berry Puff or Goody Gloop

• Set up an audiobook nearby

• Offer soft blankets and warm tea for grown-ups (consider a Flat White slime for the coffee lovers)

• Let kids squish and stretch (on a hard surface) while listening

This setup is amazing for calming down after a big energy moment, or for quiet weekend mornings when the wind’s howling and nobody wants to get dressed yet.

🌧 4. Sensory Tray Setup

Slime suggestion: Apple Whip
Place a pot of slime in a tray alongside warm rice, smooth stones, shells, or fabric. Kids can mix and match textures, creating sensory contrast with winter-themed items like pinecones, leaves, or pebbles from the garden.

✨ 5. Slime Spa

Slime suggestion: Cool Whiff or Vanilla Berry Puff
Perfect for adults and teens. Pair slime play with a face mask, herbal tea, and chill music for a winter wind-down ritual. Yes, this is your permission slip to make slime part of your self-care routine.

🎨 6. Colour Mixing

Slime suggestion: Any 2 OGs
Ask: what happens when you mix your slimes together? Let kids predict before they blend. Blueberry Cupcake + Vanilla Berry Puff? Pash’n’Pine + Apple Whip?

👣 7. Slime Puddles & Footprints

Slime suggestion: Blueberry Cupcake
Flatten slime into a puddle, then press in LEGO feet, tiny animal toys, or even clean gumboot soles. What kind of creature left that trail? Make up a story together!

🎬 8. Slime Movie Night

Slime suggestion: Any slime!
Settle in with a movie and a pot of slime. Let kids squish quietly while watching, great for fidgety winter evenings. Bonus points if the slime matches the film (Cool Whiff for Frozen, anyone?).

🧼 Keep it Clean, Even in the Muddy Months

Winter = mud, wet socks, and endless washing. Slime doesn’t need to add to the mess. Quick reminders:

• Clean hands = long-lasting slime

• Keep lids tight between play

• Washable surfaces only (no couch slime!)

• Our Consistency Controller can fix slime that’s too sticky

What's Your Seasonal Slime Style?

We’d love to see how you’re playing this winter. Tag us on Facebook or Instagram @slimeministernz and we’ll share our faves.

Stay warm, stay playful, and keep squishing.

Behind the Batches: Late-Night Slime Time, One Whiff at a Time

Mix Master Mike keeping the vibes on point, our decorated $5 mixer from Trademe!

What do you get when a graphic designer and a musician get their sensory kiddo to sleep and walk into a kitchen at 7:30PM? You get Slime Minister's Slime Lines.

Welcome to a little peek behind the batches.

While the rest of the house is winding down, slime time starts after bedtime. Once our son is tucked in and the dishwasher’s humming, you’ll find Cheyney and Ikr in the kitchen, sleeves rolled up, hands in slime.

Cheyney: Chief Whiff & Colour Queen

Cheyney’s in charge of the scent journey and the colour vibe of every slime. She’s got a nose for nostalgia and a palette tuned to joy. From the marshmallow-milky Vanilla Berry Puff to the zesty brightness of Pash’n’Pine, every Slime Minister scent is mixed and matched with care and a little cheek. The goal? To make your nose do a double-take and your heart feel a bit younger.

Ikr: Texture Technician & Squish Boss

Ikr’s the reason your slime feels so good. He’s the one testing the stretch, the pop, the fluff, and yes, the squish factor. He dials in the glue-to-activator ratio with mad scientist precision and is constantly improving how much air goes into a swirl. Texture isn’t just a detail here, it’s the whole experience.

Our Process: Small Batches, Big Energy

We hand-make each batch in small runs so we can keep quality high and creativity flowing. It’s a late-night operation powered by our Spotify playlist and fuelled by curiosity.

Every slime goes through at least three rounds of testing, including by our very own in-house product tester (a.k.a. our son), who brings his honest opinions and big reactions to the table. If it doesn’t pass the squish test or makes a mess we wouldn’t want to clean up at midnight, it doesn’t make the cut.

PSA: Slime Isn’t Forever — But You Can Help It Last

We wish slime could live forever, but like fresh bread or good bananas, it has a shelf life. Typically, you can expect about 1–3 months of prime squishiness, depending on how it’s cared for.

Here’s how to make your slime last longer:

• Clean hands, always — Oils and dirt can break down the slime over time

• Clean play surface — Keep the grit and fluff out

• Store it airtight — Lids on tight, no air gaps

• Keep it cool — Room temperature is ideal (not hot cars or fridges)

• Give it a spritz — Our Consistency Controller can help control the consistency, if it gets too sticky

If it’s getting sticky or stiff, don’t panic. Check our FAQs for how to bring it back to life.

From Our Kitchen to Your Hands

Slime Minister isn’t mass-produced. It’s late-night joy, stress relief, sensory magic, and a whole lot of squish packed into a pot. Thanks for being part of our slime story. If you’ve got an idea for a new scent, we’re all ears. Tag us in your slime time pics: on Facebook and Instagram @slimeministernz

Stay gooey,
Cheyney & Ikr

Sensory Gifting: Why Slime Is the Ultimate Present for Kids (and Grown-Ups)

Looking for a gift that’s fun, thoughtful, and actually used? We’ve got one word for you: SLIME!

Our squishy, stretchy, sweet-smelling stuff isn’t just a sensory trend. It’s a joyful, creative, screen-free experience that’s perfect for birthdays, care packages, classroom rewards, and “just because” moments. Here’s why slime makes the ultimate gift for kids (and grown-ups) who need a little brain break.

💖 It’s Sensory Gold

Slime taps into all the senses:
👀 Visually satisfying
👃 Smells incredible
🖐 Feels calming and squishy
👂 Even sounds good when you squish it

For kids (especially neurodivergent kids), this kind of sensory input is regulating and grounding. For adults, it’s a secret stress-buster. Like a fidget spinner, but more fun.

🎉 It’s a Whole Vibe

You know what doesn’t get played with? Toys with batteries that die in a week. You know what does? Slime that smells like cupcakes and feels amazing.

Slime isn’t just a product, it’s an experience. Each tub of Slime Minister slime is batch-made, and intended to spark joy, creativity, and connection. Whether your recipient is six or sixty, slime invites them to play.

📦 It’s Gift-Ready and Proudly Made in Aotearoa

Our slimes are packed with care right here in New Zealand, and they’re ready to go as gifts. No extra wrapping needed (unless you're into that). Choose one of our OG scents like Cool Whiff or Apple Whip, or go all-in on a sensory bundle.

Gifting local? Even better. Supporting small businesses makes your gift go further, for the recipient and the maker.

🌈 It’s Customisable

Got a kid who loves unicorns? Dinosaurs? Bubble tea? We’ve got the base slime for that. Simply gift along with glitter, scents or textures to match their personality or interests. It’s a choose-your-own-squish adventure.

💡 It’s Not Just for Kids

Grown-up brains love slime too. It’s the perfect gift for:

• Teachers who need a calm-down jar

• Friends going through a stressful time

• Parents who need a playful moment with their kids

• People who have everything, except slime

🛍 Ready to Gift Joy?

Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, a sensory-seeking superstar, or a grown-up who deserves something sweet, slime is a small-but-mighty present that packs a punch.

✨ 100% batch made in Aotearoa
✨ Sensory-rich and screen-free
✨ Designed to squish, soothe, and spark delight

Browse the OG line now → Shop Slime Gifts

For creative ideas and updates, follow us on Instagram

Creative Parenting: Raising Kids with Imagination, Not Just Instructions

In a world full of routines, rules, and responsibility, it can be easy to lose the magic of childhood, and sometimes, parenthood too. But what if your kitchen table could become a slime lab? What if your lounge was a sensory zone? What if parenting didn’t always feel so… serious?

Welcome to the wonderfully weird world of creative parenting.

What Is Creative Parenting?

Creative parenting is less about being crafty, and more about being curious. It’s about turning the everyday into play, inviting your child’s imagination to lead, and saying “yes” a little more often (even if it means a glitter explosion on the carpet).

At Slime Minister, we live this every day, not just as a business, but as a family. Our home is full of sensory tools, spontaneous projects, and moments that don’t always make sense (until they do). Whether we’re testing a new slime or building a cardboard city, we’re parenting in a way that’s messy, mindful, and meaningful.

Why Creative Parenting Matters

• It builds connection: Play is how kids process the world. When you join in, you enter their world instead of pulling them into yours.

• It supports neurodivergent kids: Sensory play, flexible routines, and open-ended activities are powerful tools for kids who experience the world differently.

• It fosters problem-solving: Creative parenting encourages experimentation and resilience, not perfection.

• It brings joy back to parenting: Letting go of the “shoulds” makes space for delight, silliness, and surprise.

How Slime Helps

Slime isn’t just squishy fun, it’s a gateway to creative parenting. It’s hands-on, sensory-rich, and totally open-ended. There’s no “right way” to play with it, which makes it perfect for:

• Calming big emotions

• Encouraging fine motor skills

• Creating little moments of connection

• Breaking the screen-time cycle

You don’t need fancy supplies or Pinterest-level energy. One blob of slime and an open mind is all it takes.

5 Easy Ways to Try Creative Parenting Today

1. Say yes to the mess (sometimes) — Embrace play that’s tactile, wild, or unpredictable.

2. Ask “what if?” — “What if this slime had a superpower?” “What if you were the mayor of Slimeville?”

3. Let them lead — Follow their curiosity instead of steering the activity.

4. Create, don’t correct — Focus on expression, not outcomes.

5. Join in — Get your hands messy, too.

From One Creative Parent to Another

As a mum, designer, and small business owner, I’m not here to pretend I’ve got it all together. But what I do have is a home full of sensory magic, a kid with wild ideas, and a deep belief that creativity is one of parenting’s most underrated tools.

So here’s your permission slip: be silly. Be curious. Be weird with your kid. It might just be the most important thing you do all day.

Want more tips, tools, and tactile joy?
Sign up for the Slime Minister newsletter or check out our OG Slimes — handmade in Aotearoa for brains big and small.

Slime, Brains & Bots: How We're Using AI to Stir Up Creativity

When you run a small business that's equal parts glitter, goo, and good vibes, there's a lot on your plate. Designing products, writing captions, packing orders and wrangling one little ball of energy (our son), all before the second coffee. So when AI tools like ChatGPT popped onto the scene, we were curious.

Can a robot really help write for a brand like Slime Minister? One that’s built on sensory joy, playful puns, and lots of heart?

Turns out: yes. With a few conditions.

We use ChatGPT to help spark ideas, speed up writing, and keep our brains from melting when the mental load gets too heavy. The magic happens when we blend it with our own voice, not replace it. AI might help generate the bones of a blog post or caption, but the sparkle? That still comes from us.

Just like slime, AI is what you make of it. You can shape it, stretch it, and remix it to suit your needs. And just like sensory play, it’s strangely soothing when used with intention. (Cue the brain image with purple slime topped with a bow, which yes, we prompted with ChatGPT).

We're also big on disclosing when we’ve used AI. As a graphic designer (Cheyney here 👋), it’s obvious when something’s a little too “machine-made.” But in the spirit of curiosity and creativity, we’re using Slime Minister as a playground to test what this tech can do and how it can support a small, creative, values-driven businesses like ours.

So next time you see a post from us that’s extra smooth or weirdly on point? There’s a chance ChatGPT helped us write it. And we’re not mad about it.

💬 Got thoughts on AI in creative biz? Drop a comment. We would love to hear how you’re using (or avoiding) it!

Matariki Magic: Stars, Slime and a Sprinkle of Surprise

As the stars of Matariki rise in our winter sky here in Aotearoa, it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset and squish some slime!

Matariki is a special time in the Māori calendar that marks the Māori New Year. It’s all about connection, remembrance, celebration and looking forward with hope. Traditionally, whānau would come together to share kai, tell stories and honour those who came before.

At Slime Minister, we’re all about sparking joy and connection too. To celebrate Matariki, we’re adding a little stardust to our shop. Pop a $2 Lucky Dip into your order and you might just score some celestial magic in the form of tiny stars. It’s our way of adding a little twinkle to your sensory play.

While you're here, don’t miss our uniquely Kiwi slimes. Try Ambrosia Dream - fluffy, fruity, and just like the nostalgic dessert, minus the cleanup. Or grab Goody Gloop for a jelly jube throwback that smells like every childhood birthday party rolled into one tub.

So whether you’re lighting candles, sharing kai or just enjoying the sparkle of the season, we hope you have a safe and happy Matariki.Shop small. Shop local. Shop New Zealand Slime.

Slime Minister slimes are proudly batch-made in Aotearoa, for sensory seekers across NZ and beyond.

5 Unexpected Benefits of Playing with Slime (According to Science & Our Kid)

Slime looks like just colourful goo... but it’s so much more. At Slime Minister, we’ve seen how powerful it can be for calming, focusing, and bringing joy to both kids and grown-ups.

Here are five surprising benefits of slime play:

1. It reduces stress
   Stretching, pulling, and squishing slime is a hands-on way to relax. A kind of tactile meditation for busy brains.

2. It improves focus
   Great for anyone with a busy mind. Slime gives your hands something to do while your thoughts slow down.

3. It supports fine motor skills
   Twisting, pinching, and poking strengthens little fingers and boosts coordination.

4. It helps with emotions
   Our sensory-seeking son uses slime to work through big feelings. It’s a calming outlet that doesn’t need words.

5. It gives you ASMR feels
   Our slow-pull slimes make soft popping sounds that trigger that super-relaxed, tingly feeling. Yes please.

So whether you’re using slime for stress relief, supporting a sensory-seeker, or just craving something satisfying to squish, our New Zealand slimes are made for feel-good moments.

Try Cool Whiff 💙 for calm vibes, or get a boost with Pash’n’Pine 🍍. Whatever your mood, there’s a slime for that.

The OG Slime Line – Which One Are You?

Meet the OG Slime Line from Slime Minister. Six signature slimes, each with a personality of its own. Stretchy, scented, and seriously satisfying, our original collection is designed for slime-lovers of all ages.

So... which slime are you?

🍏 Apple Whip
Light, fluffy, and fresh. You’re the first to try new things and always bring the good vibes.
🍓 Vanilla Berry Puff
Sweet, soft, and totally comforting. A cozy classic.
🍍 Pash'n'Pine
Bright and bold. You bring the fun and aren’t afraid to stand out.
🫐 Blueberry Cupcake
Smooth and rich with a sprinkle of whimsy. You’ve got a luxe streak and a love of treats.
🌴 Tropipop
Sunshine in a slime. You're all about chill vibes and good times.
💙 Cool Whiff
Clean, calming, and a little mysterious. You’re the cool one in the crew.

Whether you're into fluffy, glossy, or slow-stretch textures, our New Zealand-made slime is crafted for good feels and fun.

Try a few and mix it up. Why choose just one?

Why Sensory Play is Seriously Soothing (for Kids and Grown-Ups)

At Slime Minister, we believe play is powerful, no matter your age. Our smooth, stretchy slimes aren’t just fun. They’re a seriously soothing sensory experience.

So why is sensory play such a big deal?

🧠 It calms the mind
Squishing slime is like a reset button for busy brains. The soft texture and slow pull can ease anxious thoughts. Perfect for winding down after school or a long day at work.

👋 It builds focus
Kneading, folding, and stretching our slimes engages the senses and supports fine motor skills, especially for tamariki who love hands-on play.

💭 It sparks creativity
From mixing colours to inventing slime names (shoutout to Pash'n'Pine 🍍), sensory play helps imaginations grow. Bonus: it's screen-free.

Our New Zealand slime is handmade with love and tested by our own sensory-seeking son. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone who needs a mindful moment, we’ve got the slime for you.

Pro tip: Keep a tub of Vanilla Berry Puff or Tropipop at your desk. Your hands will thank you.

Welcome to Slime Minister: Where Sensory Play Meets Joyful Chaos

Born in our kitchen amidst love, chaos, and countless slime experiments, Slime Minister began as a heartfelt mission to support our son's sensory needs. After trying slime after slime that didn't quite hit the mark, we decided to create our own. What started as a personal endeavor quickly transformed into a passion project aimed at bringing more play into our daily lives and sharing that joy with others.

Why Slime?

Slime isn't just a toy; it's a sensory experience. For children and adults alike, engaging with slime can be calming, stimulating, and incredibly satisfying. It's a tool for mindfulness, a medium for creativity, and, most importantly, a source of fun.

Our Slime Philosophy

At Slime Minister, we believe that fun has no age limit. Our slimes are crafted to delight everyone, from kids seeking squishy adventures to adults looking for a playful stress reliever. Each batch is made in Aotearoa with care, ensuring quality and satisfaction in every jar.

Explore Our Collection

Dive into our range of uniquely crafted slimes:

• OG Vanilla Berry Puff: A sweet, aromatic experience.

• OG Tropipop: Tropical vibes in a jar.

• OG Pash’n’Pine: A fruity fusion that's simply irresistible.

• OG Apple Whip: Crisp and refreshing, like a bite into a fresh apple.

• OG Cool Whiff: A cool breeze to soothe your senses.

• OG Blueberry Cupcake: Dessert-inspired fun without the calories.

Each slime is designed to provide a unique sensory experience, combining texture, scent, and color to engage the senses fully.

Join the Slime Minister Community

We're more than just a slime shop; we're a community of play enthusiasts. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on new releases, behind-the-scenes looks, and tips for getting the most out of your slime.

Have questions or just want to say hi? Reach out to us through our Contact Page.

Thank you for joining us on this squishy, stretchy, and sensational journey. We can't wait to share the joy of slime with you!