Messy Play - Water Play

Water can be a time of sensory exploration and tactile experiences. Water play is a combination of both learning and fun! Depending on the child and the situation, water play can be stimulating or it can be a calming sensory activity.

Some of the “messy” activities you may wish to try involve water play. You may choose to use a water table, a small kiddie pool, a large basin filled with water, or even a shallow tidal pool at the beach.

If you need to make a water play area outside while on a picnic, visiting friends, or camping, you can take a large shower curtain and place in into a space you have hollowed out in the ground / yard. It does not have to be deep or very large – just big enough for your child to be able to sit in. You can find clear or colorful shower curtains at the dollar store so you do not have to worry about them tearing or getting a hole in them.

Have towels at the ready. If outside, watch for sunburn and use any sunscreen if needed. Have all items ready before filling the tub or pool with water so that you do not have to leave your child unattended at any time.

Some suggested activities for use in a water play table, or in your own “shower curtain pool” follow:

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