Yep. Messy play makes mess, and children LOVE mess! But the benefits of getting messy far outweigh the dirty clothes & sticky fingers. We’re here to help. Here are our top tips for actually enjoying messy play with your child at home.
Starting an activity just before a nap time or when you child is tired may not be the best idea. Instead choose a time that you know you can be fully present and that your child will be engaged. Possible times could be after morning tea or that lull in the day around 3pm, when you need an engaging activity to get you through the afternoon.
Ultimately outside is the ideal space for messy play as it is easier to clean, just whip out the hose or broom and you are done! But if the weather isn’t playing ball, then there are plenty of spaces inside which are ideal:
You know it’s going to get messy so don’t be caught short, embrace it but be prepared. Before you get started, have towels, wipes, flannels, aprons, cloths & equipment at arm’s reach. Nothing worse than leaving you child to grab something, only to find they have disappeared and you have gloop on the couch!! Being organized ensures you are also in control and feel relaxed, being able to enjoy the experience too!
Part of the learning for children is to also be involved in helping to clean up. Get them involved & give them a job (age appropriate). Letting them use the hose or helping with the dishes extends the fun & it’s a win-win!
Messy play has many educational benefits including: helping children to relax, experiment using trial and error, igniting imagination, enhancing hand/eye co-ordination, developing skills such as pouring, measuring, mixing, scooping and combining. As well as a banquet for the senses. Ideas to try:
We have you covered for all your messy play needs with scoops, spoons & containers as well as our range of premium powdered playdough, slime, nature play kits. Check them out here.
And, if you're worried about messy kids and their clothing, our friends over at MudMates have what you need to help keep them clean... Check them out here.
Happy playing!