Quick Read – Sensory Play

Why is Early Education so … Messy?

Sensory Play

I love entering early years settings, they’s always so much going on! Sand in one corner, water in another, a mud kitchen, painting easels, play dough… Everywhere you look there’s a multitude of fun, stimulating and often very messy activities.

For me, mess = excitement (and a lot of work!) But, I understand that for others it’s more hard work and stress than fun. This is why I wanted to take the time to explain why sensory (otherwise known as messy) play is so important for your child’s early education.

Any play that stimulates your child’s sense of touch, smell, taste, sight or hearing is sensory play. This can include listening to music, using play dough, cooking, dancing, painting, making slime, playing with food, water or sand.

Making Connections & Building Memory

Sensory play allows children to make connections with the world around them. It also provides opportunities for safe exploration of new smells, noises, textures etc. This can be beneficial for children who struggle with things that are new, for example new foods or sounds. Playing with things that are new allows children to see that they are ‘safe’.

In addition, it is well known that sensory play supports memory.

When we use our senses for learning we are more likely to remember what we have learnt.

Do you struggle with messy play at home?

If you struggle with sensory (messy) play, think about ways in which you can manage this. Children love messy play and there are huge benefits to learning this way so it’s worthwhile thinking about how you can support this type of play at home.

Stop & Think: Ask yourself these questions to help you manage your worries around sensory play:

1) Which areas in the house are totally out of bounds for sensory play?

2) Where is it okay for sensory play to take place? (Even if the only answer is outside that is absolutely fine!)

3) In the areas where sensory play is allowed, what are my boundaries?

4) What equipment is needed in order to help contain the play?

Once you have answered these questions take the time to plan out one activity that you would deem to be messy or sensory. This could be using play dough, making slime or painting. Have a go at the activity with your child, being mindful of what was successful and what needs improvement for next time. For example, do you need to buy a larger wipeable cloth for your dining room table?