Farm themed Messy Play!

I absolutely LOVE setting up messy play sessions with a theme. It taps into my creative side and always engages the children that come to my parties, classes and events. A farm theme is one of my all time favourites as there is so much to choose from, from the animals you find to the ever popular vehicles that work on a farm.

There is also so much learning that can come from a well thought out tuff tray or activity. It can help promote:

• Imaginative play
• Speech and language skills – animal names, animal noises, listening skills
• Fine and gross motor skills – grasping, pouring, crushing, hand eye co-ordination
• Social skills – sharing, turn taking
• Sensory play – investigating different textures, smells, sounds and tastes
• Pre – writing skills – mark-making shapes and letters.

The list goes on and on!!!

So – take a look at some of my farm themed ideas below and be sure to let me know if you try any out with your little ones. Or if you’d like to avoid the mess in your home, do come along to one of my classes in Brighton or Uckfield or even book a Little Learners themed Birthday party.

Tractor made from coloured rice – great for scooping and pouring. It makes a lovely sound when used with metal containers.

Planting potatoes and vegetables in fabulous moon dough (flour mixed with oil and coloured with cocoa powder/powder paint). Great for digging, sculpting and hiding objects.

Cereal farm with animals and farm vehicles – great for imaginative play, scrunching, scooping and different textures.

Feed the animals (with pasta) – great for developing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Use fingers and a pincer grip or tongs.

Painting – potato masher chick art!

I hope you enjoy these fabulous farm activities!

Kate xx