Making Too Much of Messy Play?

For all I’ve set up a messy play group in West Cumbria, I understand where people are coming from when they say that too much is made of structured messy play, sensory play, creative play and related activities.

Play comes naturally to kids and it’s the best way for them to learn when they’re young, so you can just keep it simple. Although you can spend hours in the kitchen whipping up various materials with interesting properties and plan craft activities with an end product in mind, it’s not necessary.

Image by Nevit via Wikimedia Commons

Give a baby, toddler or preschooler a tub filled with water, sand or soil, along with some pots and utensils, and this simple activity can keep them entertained for a good chunk of time – potentially longer than with more elaborate sensory play ideas. Equally, supply some paint, glue, pieces to stick and paper, and away your little one can go. You might need to give a little direction with something unfamiliar, but try to let children use their natural curiosity to explore, as that’s when they learn the most. When it comes to creative activities, try to forget about any ideas you may have about making a particular item, as it’s the creative process that’s important and your tot can’t have free reign if you’re trying to overly guide them.

Whatever your little one plays with or creates, they’ll get something out of it and the most important thing is that they have fun. If you’ve enjoyed an activity together then it’s a success!