ABSTRACT
Fundamental to adults appreciating and valuing messy play is an understanding of why it is so beneficial. In part this can be found by looking backwards to the theoretical underpinnings of this early years staple, but also forwards, to our rapidly evolving understanding of neuroscience and how children learn through active sensory exploration of materials. Children learn best when able to freely enjoy plentiful and varied sensory experiences in a whole-bodied way. This is only possible when a child feels sufficiently safe and secure to curiously explore the environment around them. The quality of the physical and emotional early childhood microsystem is the product of countless conscious and subconscious decisions by parents and practitioners, each of whom will be affected by their own influences. A difference in parents' valuing and provision of messy play at home may introduce anxiety about mess for children and adults in the setting.
