Lots of people want to know, outside of the sheer joy it, what are the real benefits of messy play for babies and children?
By exploring a variety of materials children are developing fine motor skills and hand and eye co-ordination through movements such as stacking, spooning and pouring. They experience a vast array of sensations by handling materials from baked-beans to porridge oats and from shaving foam to sand. It’s called sensory play for a reason, everyone of their senses is used when they explore these things!
Messy play is great for children to learn about concepts, which forms the basis for later learning. By experimenting with the materials provided, children will learn about cause and effect, and about discovery within a group as well as individually.
Outside of these areas there are equally important social skills being learned at the same time such as learning to share, personal space, concentration, problem-solving, making new relationships, self-confidence and esteem. Since messy play is not about a finished product, children who may be sensitive about “failure” or performance can build confidence in this process-focused activity.
With various opportunities to play and explore a multitude of materials children will build upon their imagination and natural creativity
Learning to work with, and interact with other adults, can help with the transition of moving on to nursery school or primary schooling.
Messy play opportunities are something every child should experience regularly, there are many early years’ specialists out there who would suggest that it is essential for a child’s development and learning.
Messy play classes offer you the chance to ensure your child is receiving a wealth of experiences, without the stresses of cleaning up afterwards. The variety of activities on offer in a class also mean there is less chance of a child getting bored with an activity after 2 minutes- there is always something different to move on to. Classes, like Little Squigglers, also offer parents and children the chance to socialise and make new friends.
Go on – find a class in your area and discover that messy play isn’t something to be afraid of – it’s fun when you know how!
About the author:
Amanda is the founder of Little Squigglers and Little Squigglers Franchise Ltd. An ex Primary School teacher and mother of two, Amanda is passionate about the development and creativity of children.
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