Almost every child LOVES water, and is one of those few activities that can keep our children quiet for a very very long time! But the daunting idea that playing it indoors can be very messy, and a deep regret is what holds us back. It can be made much easier, and here I’ll post different ways to mix it up, and how to play indoors. (Obviously if you can do it outdoors during warmer times, then I suggest that!)

A dry surface

For indoor play, use old towels and invest in a couple of thick, large bathmats. Use these as your to go to mats for when it’s time to play with water. Make it clear to the kids that If the water makes it ways off the mat (on purpose) then water play is over. After a few accidents, my boys don’t take the water for walks anymore and will stick to the area with bath mats. This activity is particularly useful whilst you are in the kitchen and need the kids to be occupied! Plus more on what their playing with, under warmer days picture.

Waterbeads

(Only use if your child is past the, everything must go in the mouth phase)
If you’re able to get your hands on Water beads, then this is a great addition to water play. I got mine from Dubai, Dragon mart, but in the Uk they are widely available online. Usually used for display purposes in vases etc.

I would advise to let your children play with these, if they don’t put things in their mouth and/or will understand not too! They just need to be added to water, and your child will be thrilled at the texture and how they expand when added to water.

Coloured Ice

Add a drop of food colouring to water, and freeze in different ice moulds.
Children of all age groups will be amazed by the colours, the texture, temperature, and when they melt away the colour that remains behind.

Warmer days

I set the boys up on the balcony with this activity, a toy fishing pole with magnetic fish and a net! They had a blast and played for aaaaages, whilst at the same time this helped them develop their hand eye co-ordination as well as motor skills and creativity. And all this whilst we lazed (guilt free of course) on the sofa 🙂 *You don’t need a paddling pool, and you don’t need to do it outside either. You could do the same with a small plastic bowl or better yet in the bath! Great activity for both ages too x