St. Michaels Episcopal Day School. A Reggio-Emilia Inspired Preschool Based in Austin, TX

Messy play is exactly what it sounds like. Play that is a sensory experience in nature. Whether it be chalk, paint, sand, or water, messy materials draw children in and invite them to create an experience in their own way. Messy play is infinite, open ended, and, more importantly, child directed.

Messy play gives young children endless ways to learn, and is crucial in the early stages of a child's development. Messy play helps children to: improve physical skills and coordination, work co-operatively and together, use all of their senses to discover and explore their environment, and develop their imagination, creative thinking, and ability to problem solve.