Let’s just start this and get it out there. As much as kids love this, I fully understand from experience that at times, I do not love this! There is a lot of cleaning up most of the time.
If you let go for a short time, it can be fun. It can be enjoyable for everyone.
What is messy/sensory play:
It’s all about play that invites children to explore using all their senses! This type of play is free and unstructured. It gives kids the chance to experiment and learn through problem-solving. They can also enhance their creativity and cognitive growth. They get to use their sense of smell, taste, sound, and sight while having fun! With so many safe materials to choose from, the possibilities are endless. Let the adventure begin!
Find out more information at: https://www.actionforchildren.org.uk/blog/what-is-sensory-play-and-why-is-it-important/
Why is messy/sensory play important:
Engaging in activities that stimulate the senses is crucial. These activities enhance brain development. They do so by fostering the formation of nerve connections.
Each new experience—whether it involves touch, sight, smell, sound, movement, or taste—contributes to building these essential connections.
This approach is fundamental to how children and babies learn, encouraging their curiosity, problem-solving abilities, and exploratory behavior.
The first five years of a child’s life are particularly significant. This period is when their brains develop most rapidly. During these early years, the creation of new nerve connections sets the groundwork for their future growth and development.
By focusing on these experiences now, we are actively shaping a strong foundation for their lifelong learning and potential.
What skills will my child learn from this form of play:
There is no right or wrong way to play, children are free to explore and discover at their own pace.
Fine motor skills – involve squeezing, grasping, and pouring. They develop hand and eye coordination and muscles. This development helps with writing and other tasks later.
Gross motor skills – involve the larger muscles. jumping, crawling, rolling, climbing and body awareness.
Language development – opportunities to learn new words
Cognitive growth – helps develop problem-solving skills and an understanding of cause and effect.
Social skills – if this is with other children, it can teach them turn-taking and sharing
Imagination and creation – what it could be, might be, by playing with different materials and textures.
Examples of messy/sensory play:
Cooked Spaghetti – Safe and edible.
Play-Doh – Colorful and cheap
Edible paint – Home-made or bought
Jelly – Edible, safe
Mud, leaves, water, stones, flowers – All natural and free outdoor items
Sand, ice, bubbles, shaving form, oats, cereal, rice – These are common household items. We can use them for play.
Visit and follow me on Instagram for more ideas, real videos and information on messy/sensory play: https://www.instagram.com/raisingmamasboys/