Mushy Peas Messy Play.

A huge part of Tom's home schooling involves messy play. I am always on the lookout for new ideas and new things for Tom to explore. The messier the better, Tom definitely agrees!

When working with a child that has very complex medical needs it's important not to rush into messy play. Angel Delight and Gloop (cornflour mixed with water) are always good to start with as they aren't too 'suffocating' on the hands or feet.

I spent a lot of time with Tom doing messy play on his feet as I found that he was more open to exploring new textures, temperatures and sensations with his feet at first. I gradually introduced messy play to Tom's hands, he was more open with his right hand and would often pull his left hand away when playing with anything messy. I encouraged Tom to play with both but never pushed him. Now he will confidently play with anything (other than PVA glue) with his hands or feet.

Now the challenge is keeping Tom interested and excited with different play options. I chose mushy peas on this day as Tom was being very cheeky and interactive. I warmed the mushy peas up to add a different sensation and this also changed the texture. I don't always warm messy play up as it keeps Tom interested if I vary it.

I used to use the 'hand under hand' technique with Tom at the start, a technique I learnt whilst training to be an intervenor, but gradually he is able to explore independently. This is so important because he has so much hands on input throughout his day I encourage him to play independently wherever he can. I of course am always with Tom and when I say he plays independently I mean he explores the messy play on his own but I am there to play with him.

Mushy peas are very sensory. The texture is great because when they are hot they are smooth and a little runny almost watery, as they cool down they become thick and stodgy. This change in texture is a step up from ordinary messy play and it encourages development. It is also extremely good at encouraging fine motor skills.

Tom loves most messy play, if you haven't already tried mushy peas then give it a try. It is great for all ages and all abilities. If you have any unique or different ideas for messy play ideas please get in touch and let me know, as I said earlier I am always on the look out for new and interesting ideas to keep Tom entertained.