What is messy play?
Messy play, also known as sensory play, is play through which children explore, experiment and create using different materials. While it is primarily a tactile (‘touch’) experience, messy play often also involves one or more of the other senses of sight, sound, taste and smell. Messy play materials can include almost anything that is safe for children to interact with, for example water, sand, dirt, mud, clay, slime, shaving cream, paint. or food-based items such as jelly, pasta and rice. This type of play is process-focused rather than product-focused, meaning there’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ outcome.
Busting the ‘messy play myth’
We often hear people say things like “all children love to get messy”, but this is not the case! Each child responds differently to sensory experiences. Some children may be a little timid or apprehensive, while others can have an unusual or heightened rection to sensory input that may range from some sensitivity to significant or discomfort aversion. It is important to introduce children to messy play gradually, in ways that feel safe and comfortable for them and that allow them to explore and engage at their own pace and in their own way.
Why is messy play important?
It supports many areas of children’s development, including:
- Sensory and brain development: Messy play stimulates children’s senses, and encourages creativity and problem solving, helping to build neural connections in the brain.
- Motor skills: Interacting physically with different materials helps develop children’s fine and gross motor skills.
- Language development: Children build their vocabulary and communication skills as they describe and/or listen to others describe textures, actions, and emotions.
- Social and emotional learning: Group messy play experiences promote collaborative play and can support children to practice turn taking and negotiating with others.
- Confidence and independence: Being able to make choices and explore freely builds a child’s sense of autonomy and self-esteem.
Supporting Children in Messy Play
- Start small and go at the child’s pace. Begin with dry or less sticky or ‘messy’ materials like dry rice, pasta or shredded paper. Slowly introduce wetter or more tactile items like slime or paint.
- Adjust activities to suit children’s preferences. For example, if they don’t like getting their hands messy, provide tools such as spoons, brushes or gloves, or focus on activities that involve less direct contact with the materials. Avoid forcing participation.
- Provide a variety of materials. Offer materials with varying textures, colours, weights and smells and allow children to explore freely, follow their interests and engage to their level of comfort.
- Create a safe, relaxed environment. Set up in a space where mess is expected and accepted—outdoors, or over a tarp or washable surface. Allow children to use protective clothing such as smocks or aprons and reassure them that it’s okay to get messy.
- Be present and involved. Join in the play, model curiosity, and ask open-ended questions like “What does that feel like?” or “What do you think will happen if we add more water?”
Focus on the process. Talk with children about what they are doing and experiencing rather than focussing on the result or product.
When children are given the freedom to explore and get messy, they build confidence, creativity, and a deeper understanding of their world. However, as with all aspects of children’ learning and development, when supporting children to participate in messy play, it is essential to recognise and respond to their specific needs, interests and preferences. Following the child’s lead ensures they can reap the benefits of sensory experiences in ways that are comfortable and safe for them.
Contact us
If you have any questions or would like more information, please email us at childrensservices@theinfantshome.org.au