Messy Play Dates
Sensory play with water, sand, dough, paint and other materials that lets children explore freely through touch.
Free exploration, without worrying about the mess
Water, sand, dough and paint: children grab, mix and try things out, with no rules about the “right” result.
The space is set up so the mess is part of the play and the clean-up is nobody's problem.
“Let their hands get dirty. That is where exploring starts.”
What it can offer
Fine motor skills
Grabbing, squeezing and pouring exercise the fingers and hands.
Hand strength
Dough and resistant materials build the small muscles.
Hand-eye coordination
Activities that ask for precision and aim.
Creativity and problem solving
Children try, fail and find new ways through.
Focus
Open-ended play holds their attention for longer.
Confidence
With no right or wrong, children try things freely.
Benefits are possible and indicative. They are not a medical promise of results.
How a session flows
Welcome and materials
We show the day's materials and what can be done with them.
Free exploration
Children approach the materials at their own pace.
Guided activity
One play idea, for the children who want to try it.
Clean-up and close
Farewell circle.
We recommend comfortable clothes that can get dirty and a change of clothes.
