Magic of learning as glitter explodes

This article originally appeared in The Daily Telegraph

Picture this: you walk into your living room and are immediately hit by pure chaos.

Your little ones are covered head to toe in paint, happily squishing their fingers through a tub of slime and creating some kind of glitter explosion in the corner. Your first thought? “What on earth are they doing?” But before you rush for the mop, let me tell you something that might surprise you. That mess is where the magic happens. As an early childhood educator of more than 27 years, I can assure you that all this mess is more than just fun and games; it’s actually essential to your child’s development.

When children dive into activities like painting or making slime, they’re not just keeping themselves busy – they’re developing fine motor skills, exploring their senses, and learning to make decisions. These experiences spark creativity and help them think outside the box. Another benefit of messy play is its positive impact on physical health and the immune system. Getting hands-on with natural elements like mud, soil, and water exposes children to different microbes, which can help build a stronger immune system.

Messy play also encourages children to take risks which ultimately builds confidence. When children are allowed to experiment freely, they develop a willingness to tackle challenges, a trait that serves them well in all areas of life.

Engaging in outdoor messy play also encourages physical activity, improving overall fitness, co-ordination, and motor skills. When children are out there splashing in puddles or digging in the dirt, they’re not just having a blast – they’re getting a workout, building strength, and boosting their health in ways that a sterile, indoor environment can’t match.

So, the next time your child comes home with paint in their hair or slime on their clothes, don’t panic. Embrace the mess. Let them get dirty, let them explore, let them create.

I’ve spent years watching children grow and learn through play, and I can tell you without a doubt – the mess is worth every single splatter. Because in that beautiful chaos, children aren’t just playing – they’re learning to navigate the world and discovering who they are. Isn’t that what we all want for our children?