What Does WILD Messy Play Look Like?

Messy play is a big part of WILD groups and one of our favourite activities. It provides WILD babies and their parents the opportunity to be creative without worrying about making a mess.

Before WILD group begins, our team sets up a stimulating creative environment filled with paint, brushes, spray bottles containing paint, feathers, pipettes, and wallpaper taped to the floor.

When the babies and toddlers arrive, their natural curiosity takes over, and they eagerly dive into the activities. The children independently explore various textures and the messy results created by putting a hand, foot, or knee into a paint pot. Parents and staff are present to observe and offer positive feedback as supportive figures in this creative process.

A small toy tractor is also introduced into the mix, and the children confidently run the tires through the paint, creating prints. They manage their emotions as they clamber over each other and share brushes and spray bottles.

The adults follow the children’s lead, asking questions about their play. This approach fosters confidence and self-esteem, as the children feel empowered and heard. The interactions among the children enhance their social and emotional skills as they learn to share the space and navigate their ever-changing environment.

As the session comes to an end, the children signal that they are ready to transition to other activities by wandering away from the messy play area in search of different toys.

At this point, WILD workers introduce water bowls and a paddling pool for the children to wash off. With renewed interest and joy, the children often splash around in the water while still in their clothes.

Towards the end of the session, the children may start to show signs of feeling overwhelmed and dis-regulated, which is common after such an exciting experience.

To help them calm down, we transition to a soothing singing activity followed by a story chosen by the children.

Messy play is not only lots of fun; the it also supports childhood development in numerous ways, as described by the NHS!

Physical Skills: Messy play encourages children to engage with smaller objects, allowing them to feel, hold, and mould various materials. This activity enhances their coordination and fine motor skills.

Cognitive Skills: It aids the development of critical cognitive skills such as thinking, learning, exploring, and problem-solving.

Understanding Their Senses: While playing, children utilize several senses, primarily touch and sight, allowing them to explore new textures and sensory experiences.

Social Skills: Messy play can be a social activity, teaching children vital skills like sharing and turn-taking while interacting with their peers.

Imagination: It provides children with the chance to try new things and experiment in a safe environment.

Self-Esteem and Self-Expression: Messy play fosters a sense of safety in experimentation, as children understand there is no right or wrong way to engage in play.