Messy Play for Little Learners: Sensory Fun at SuperCamps (and at Home!)

Messy play is more than just fun — it’s a brilliant way for young children to explore the world around them, engage their senses, and develop key early skills. At SuperCamps, messy play is a big part of our Early Years programme, helping little learners build confidence through hands-on, creative discovery.

Whether it’s squishing, pouring, splashing or painting, messy play supports fine motor development, coordination, early maths concepts (like volume and pattern), and even language development — as children describe textures, colours and sensations.

At camp, children might explore everything from colourful foam and water play to sand trays and texture tables. It’s all about open-ended fun in a safe, supervised environment — where it’s perfectly okay to get a little messy.

Messy Play Ideas to Try at Home

Want to bring some SuperCamps-style messy play to your own kitchen table? Here are a few easy, sensory-rich activities that are fun to set up and even more fun to play with:

1. Puffy Paint

Mix equal parts shaving foam and PVA glue, then stir in a few drops of food colouring. Use brushes, fingers or sponges to create colourful, 3D artwork on card. Let it dry for a puffy, textured finish kids will love.

2. Rainbow Rice

Colour dry rice with food colouring and a splash of vinegar, then let it dry completely. Pour into a shallow tray and add spoons, funnels or small toys. It's a calming, tactile experience for little hands.

3. Frozen Toy Rescue

Freeze small plastic toys in ice cube trays or larger containers. Let your child chip, scoop or spray the ice to free their toys. Great for warm days and perfect for building patience and fine motor skills.

4. Edible Mud Play

Mix cocoa powder with a little flour and water to create a thick, muddy texture that’s completely taste-safe. Add toy diggers or animals and let the imagination run wild!

Why It Matters

Messy play encourages independence, creativity and experimentation — giving children space to try new things without fear of “doing it wrong”. And best of all? It’s a whole lot of fun!

At SuperCamps, our Early Years staff are specially trained to guide little ones through sensory activities that are safe, engaging and developmentally supportive. Whether your child is exploring textures for the first time or jumping straight into goo and glitter, there’s something for every curious camper.

👉 Learn more about our Early Years camps and book your child’s place