Why Kids Should Be Allowed to Be Messy

We have all seen it before. When you leave children alone for too long, they start to get bored and play with anything they can get their little hands on. Chalk starts to get on the floor, glue is everywhere, and papers are torn and scattered.

Adults will often frown and get angry at such creative expressions. I am no exception. I do not like children touching or messing up my things. Then I have to clean it all up, as chances are they do not know how to clean up.

But it is so important we do not stifle their creativity. They should be allowed to make mistakes. If everything is curated nicely for them, they will not be problem-solvers when they grow up. When they run into a difficult time, they will flee or seek the common solution. But this world does not need robots. We need creative people. We need ideas. We need bravery.

I believe everything should be done in moderation. Do not limit them but also do not give them too wide of a choice. Guide them along but do not force them.

One good way to promote creativity is through messy play. Intentionally tell your children that they are allowed to be as messy as they want to, as long as they clean up after themselves. You can set boundaries so that they don't mess up important things. It does take effort from the parents, but you can see the results in your children.

Messy play promotes the use of their senses. Children learn through play. Enough of the tablet or phone games/videos. Children should be allowed to play using their senses. Learn how bubbles form. Feel the texture of mud as it dries up. Pour water back and forth.

Hope your children can have fun!