Embrace the Mess - How Messy Play Supports Toddler Development

Johannesburg, South Africa, 20 January 2025 – Messy play is more than just chaotic fun; it’s a gateway to creative exploration, sensory stimulation, and developmental growth for toddlers. Dibber International Preschools champions the power of play, including the wonderfully messy kind, to nurture holistic development in young children.

“Messy play is about more than making a mess—it’s about giving children the freedom to explore their world through touch, sight, and sound,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools. “This kind of play is vital for their sensory development, problem-solving abilities, and creativity.”

The Value of Messy Play

Messy play engages a toddler’s senses, encourages curiosity, and builds foundational skills. While it might sound daunting to parents, the benefits are well worth the cleanup. “Messy play allows children to experiment, make discoveries, and express themselves in ways they might not during structured activities,” Assis explains.

Six Fun and Safe Messy Play Ideas

• Sand Pit Adventure: Mix corn starch, cocoa powder, and water to create a safe, sensory-rich ‘sand pit’. Add miniature toys like dinosaurs or insects for imaginative fun.
• Water Play: Equip your toddler with containers, water, and a safe space to splash around. Enhance the experience with soapy suds or by helping wash vegetables or toys.
• Slime Fun: Love it or hate it, slime captivates toddlers. Homemade recipes offer a hands-on sensory activity perfect for free play.
• Jelly Exploration: Involve your child in the kitchen to make edible jelly creations. Exploring textures and eating their work doubles the fun.
• Playdough Creativity: Whether store-bought or homemade, playdough helps toddlers shape their imagination, making animals, objects, and more.
• Painting Masterpieces: Lay down paper or secure large sheets to walls and let your toddler paint to their heart’s content. Ensure the paints are non-toxic, and enjoy watching their creativity unfold.

Messy Play Tips for Parents

To make the most of messy play:

1. Choose an easy-to-clean space like the kitchen, bathroom, or outdoors.
2. Dress your child in old clothes or an apron.
3. Supervise play to ensure safety while encouraging exploration.

At Dibber International Preschools, messy play is embraced as part of a play-based learning philosophy that nurtures well-rounded, confident, and curious learners. “Letting your child get messy while exploring is one of the best ways to help them grow. So, parents, grab your aprons and let the fun begin!”