Let’s Get Messy

From the moment we’re born, we use our senses to understand ourselves and the world around us. While we often think of the basic five, we actually have eight senses that work together every day. One of the most powerful—and fun—systems to explore with your child is the tactile (touch) system.

The tactile system is the foundation for daily milestones like getting dressed, writing, and using utensils. It also plays a huge role in emotional regulation; think of how a deep-pressure hug can instantly calm a frustrated toddler. By leaning into touch-based play, you aren't just having fun—you’re building the bridge between sensory exploration and communication.

As babies explore, they learn the difference between "wet" and "dry" or "smooth" and "sticky." For many parents, watching a child get messy can feel a bit stressful! Our instinct is often to swoop in with a wipe the moment a hand gets blue or a chin gets sticky.

Next time things get messy, wait just a few moments before cleaning up. Use that "messy" time to model words. When we let children stay in the experience, we give them a meaningful reason to communicate.

Children learn best and experience life in meaningful ways through play. Play is our opportunity to build the bridge between the sensory and language system. Here are two activities you can try at home to “get messy!

Veggie Paint:

We may avoid using paint with our little ones due to fear of them eating it; however, by using ingredients in your pantry, you can make some edible paint that will create a safe opportunity to get messy. This YouTube video uses marshmallows, water, corn syrup, and food coloring to make a simple, liquid mixture that can be used on toast or paper. You can also use flour, water, and any colorful fruit or vegetable you have on hand to create some edible paint. Once you have your chosen fruit or vegetable, you can add it to a blender or smash it by hand until you get your desired consistency- to thicken the paint, slowly add flour.

Water Tummy Time:

Placing your baby on its tummy, put a cookie tray in front of them with water and a few of their toys (e.g., car, ball, chewy). Tummy time is a great opportunity for your baby to start building and using their upper body as well as prevent flat spots on the baby’s head. Depending on your baby’s age, this can be a 5-10 minute supervised activity.

How do I support language?

Our natural instinct is to ask questions like, "What's that?" or "What color is this?". However, labeling is only one small part of communication. We also want to help our children learn to protest, request, and comment. Instead of "quizzing" your child, try to Observe and Mirror: If they dive right in: Model excitement! Say "Splash!" or "Fun!". If they are skeptical of the texture: Acknowledge it with a gentle, "Hmm?" or "Cold?". If they taste the paint: Narrate the experience with a "Mmm, yummy!" or "Ooh, sticky!"

By following their lead, you show them that their reactions are a valid form of communication. Watch your child’s reaction and let them tell you about their experience; limit the amount of questions you ask; and join in on the fun!

What can I do if my baby is non-speaking?

If your child is not yet using their voice to communicate with you, it does not mean your child is not communicating. Every time your baby cries, squeals, and smiles, they are communicating something with you. If your child is producing baby sounds (e.g., cooing sounds), imitate those sounds with your baby. See if you two can take turns making sounds. This can also be a good opportunity to incorporate baby sign language. Here are some words to consider: “more”, “all done”, and “play”. Remember, play and smiles should always come first. Once you see something your baby is enjoying: narrate that fun for them and consider how you can do more of it.

What are your go to “getting messy” activities?

Resources:

Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (n.d.). Tummy time to help your baby get strong. Safe to Sleep. https://safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov/reduce-risk/tummy-time

Lighthouse Films. (n.d.). Mom and baby finger painting [Video]. Getty Images. https://www.gettyimages.in/videos/mom-finger-painting

Ticktin, A. (2021). Play to progress: Lead your child to success using the power of sensory play. TarcherPerigee.