Easing Into Messy Play

Are you afraid of the mess that comes with messy play? Do you fear letting your child help in the kitchen might ruin dinner?

Me too.

I know kids are messy and that it is okay, yet I don’t want the house (or myself) covered in whoknowswhat. My house isn’t even that clean most of the time so you would think I don’t care. But I do. I don’t know why, but I do.

Sponge and cotton swab painting.

Rissa has already decorated many walls, doors and even a couch cushion with crayons. Yet I’ve been hesitant to let her paint. I make up excuses like she might stick it in her mouth (which is true) or she will get it every where but on the paper (quite possible).

I had to let go of control and relax. Creativity is important to me, so I want her to experiment with ways to express herself. Plus, she wants to help with everything right now. Might as well use this opportunity before she loses interest.

Last year she made a few things at story time. Whatever we colored and glued together was usually dismantled by the time we got home. She is still a bit destructive like that, but it’s her artwork… she can do what she wants with it, right?

Over the past few months I’ve started introducing new activities like mixing water with oatmeal, colored water, jello painting, and sponge painting.

I’m having the hardest time with keeping my hands off when she helps me bake or cook. For now I let her help me measure, pour and stir. I’ve let her stir a little all by herself. Since I am afraid of us messing up meals right now, I prefer to have her help me bake dessert or make smoothies. I figure we can live with throwing away a cake (wait, what? did I just say that?) if needed rather than an entire dinner.

Rissa’s frosting!

Soon I think she may be ready to do more. Rissa is currently practicing how to spread frosting and peanut butter properly.

Tips for messy play activities:

• Spread out a towel or blanket for easy cleanup.
• Explain that nothing leaves the towel area or play time ends.
• Help set items out and clean up.
• Wear clothing ok if gets stained or ditch clothes completely.
• Let them explore!

What kind of messy play does your child like?

Darcy Zalewski

Darcy is the founder of “Life With Darcy and Brian,” where she combines her love for education, board games, and crafting to create engaging learning experiences for kids. Her creative projects and writing have been featured in outlets like The Toy Insider, CafeMom, Mom.com, Parents.com, Country Living, and The Pioneer Woman.