Increasing comfort around mess
Overview
You can help children feel more comfortable with mess by getting the space ready and thinking about how prepared they are to try out different textures and sensations. Think about whether they will be more comfortable sitting, kneeling, standing or moving around. Its helpful to discuss the benefits of messy play with parents and collaborate on providing spare clothes. Standard protective clothing can be sensory challenging for some children, so they might prefer using old shirts or T-shirts from home as cover-ups. Place children who are more sensitive to touch away from lively peers to minimise unexpected contact. Provide bowls of water, damp cloths, or wipes for cleaning hands. Many children find school paper towels uncomfortable, so consider alternatives like soft paper towels or flannels. Playing outdoors can provide lots of opportunities to experience different textures and being outside can help some children engage in a way that isn’t possible indoors.
One step at a time: Building towards being comfortable with mess
You could start by keeping a damp cloth nearby so children can clean their hands immediately when they feel uncomfortable. It's helpful to make hand-washing movements a regular and fun part of their routine. Practice these movements together to help them get used to cleaning their hands in a relaxed manner.
You could then gradually increase the time they use the damp cloth to clean their hands. Start with small amounts of messy play and slowly build up over time. Praise them for managing the mess, even if it's just for a little bit longer than before- every step counts!
Slowly introduce new textures, trying one or two new ones at a time and keep play short and fun. Incorporate their interests whenever possible. This step-by-step way of playing helps children feel more comfortable and confident with messy play.
