“Oh no, I can’t let the kids play with playdough,” you exclaim, cringing at the thought of it getting embedded in the carpet. But honestly, how can you navigate parenting without it? Playdough guarantees at least an hour of uninterrupted “me-time”—time that ideally should be spent cleaning but often turns into a deep dive into social media. While the kids mold and shape their creations, you might find yourself scrolling through old photos and wondering how you got here. The kids are joyfully engaged, and yes, they’re making a mess—two things that usually go hand in hand.
The same holds true for painting. I know parents who won’t allow art projects indoors, but I confidently hand my kids all sorts of paints. Watercolors are my go-to for everyday use when I want to keep things simple. “Here are some paints, kiddos. Just don’t paint the walls!” This gives me an hour of free time, likely spent sipping coffee and contemplating the mountain of laundry waiting for me. Yes, contemplating, not actually doing it—because like most parents, laundry is my least favorite chore.
For those days when I want to be the fun mom, I squeeze out some tempera paint onto an old cardboard box and let the kids finger paint. They eagerly present me their “masterpieces,” proudly displaying handprints and swirls, and I find myself saying, “Wow, that’s amazing!” instead of the truth—“What in the world is that?” Yes, it leads to paint-covered hands, which they love to squish and smear, leaving trails up their arms. And like every mother, I cringe at the thought of scrubbing paint off their skin and the kitchen sink after they’ve touched every surface on the way.
But amidst the chaos, they’re creating art that brings them joy, and that’s what matters. Research shows that children learn more effectively when they can explore and make a mess. One study found that toddlers grasped new concepts better when they engaged in messy play. Kids thrive on this sensory experience; it’s in their nature.
In today’s world, the concept of children playing freely has dwindled, replaced by Pinterest-perfect crafts. We need to provide our kids with glue, glitter, and random bits of paper and then step back to appreciate their creativity. They’ll cover every inch of construction paper with glue and sprinkle it with glitter—glitter that will haunt you long after the project is done.
You’ll find their colorful creations displayed all over your home: on the dining room table, the TV stand, even on the dog’s crate. For a few days, you’ll be shifting artwork from place to place, but it’s worth it. They’re proud of what they’ve accomplished, and that pride is invaluable.
Yes, it’s demanding. You’re juggling reading Dr. Seuss multiple times, engaging in imaginative play, and tackling laundry. I completely understand why some parents restrict playdough and paint, but it’s essential for kids to engage in these messy activities. We need to embrace the chaos—glitter storms, bead explosions, and random paint splatters on your freshly painted walls. They need to explore, create, and express themselves through art.
Moreover, personal messiness is just as important. When they go outside, let them use the hose to “find worms,” which usually results in a splattered scene of dirt and water. Or watch them create mud concoctions to paint on trees and sidewalks. Those scrawled T. Rex drawings on your curb? They’ll become cherished memories.
One of the best parts about this mess is that kids love to clean up. They’ll wash away the paint and dirt, giving you a little more time to relax—even if it means scrubbing glitter off the kitchen table. The mud on their clothes and the art on your walls may eventually wash away, but the memories created during this messy playtime will stick with you long after the cleanup is done.
So, let your kids indulge in their messiness. It can be tough to watch them get paint all over themselves, but remember: it’s okay to let them explore and create. You can even use this opportunity to teach them responsibility by having them help tidy up afterward. Or just let them enjoy some playdough while you take a breather. Choose your battles wisely!
For more insights on parenting and the importance of creative play, consider reading our other blog posts, including our article on privacy policies and at-home insemination kits. You can also find valuable information on intrauterine insemination as you navigate the journey of parenthood.
In summary, letting children get messy is vital for their growth and creativity. While it can be overwhelming, the joy and learning that comes from messy play far outweigh the cleanup. So embrace the chaos, cherish the memories, and enjoy the beautiful mess of childhood.