The Messy Play Kids sensory-rich sessions are a wonderfully inclusive activity because there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It offers significant benefits to children with special needs and those who thrive on hands-on, practical learning experiences. Our messy play sessions cater to babies as young as 6 months, or as soon as they can sit and support themselves, all the way up to preschoolers aged 5. We take a unique approach by not categorizing our sessions based on age because the interaction between children of different ages is incredibly important for developing social and communication skills. This approach also makes our sessions an ideal choice for families with both babies and older siblings who would like to participate in activities together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Messy play is a crucial aspect of children’s development, offering numerous benefits. It engages their senses, enhances fine motor skills, sparks creativity and problem-solving abilities, promotes language development, and provides a platform for emotional expression. Additionally, messy play fosters social skills, boosts confidence and independence, all while bringing immense joy. Incorporating messy play into a child’s routine is both fun and educational, supporting their holistic development and creating lasting, positive memories. Embracing the mess is where valuable learning experiences occur.
About Our Sessions
What does a messy play session entail, how long is it, and what does it cost?
Our sessions are one hour long and cost R200 per child. Each session features various themed station boxes filled with taste-safe, colourful sensory elements that align with our monthly themes. Children get to explore through open-ended play, encouraging creativity, sensory development, and independent discovery. Our sessions are perfect for ages 6 months to 5 years old, with tactile experiences to suit different developmental stages.
You can view our monthly themes and book sessions online at www.messyplaykids.co.za
Getting Started
This is my child's first messy play experience. What should I expect?
Every child responds differently to sensory play. Some dive right in, while others need time to warm up. Both approaches are normal! Our facilitators create a pressure-free environment where children can explore at their own pace. The goal is fun, exploration, and development through play.
How can I continue messy play at home?
We offer wonderful products and kits that feature many of the same materials we use in our sessions! These are perfect for extending the sensory play experience at home.
You can view and order our home kits online, giving your little ones familiar materials to explore between sessions.
Age Groups & Development
What age groups do you cater for?
We welcome children from 6 months (or as soon as they can sit and support themselves) up to 5 years old. We take a unique approach by not categorising our sessions based on age because the interaction between children of different ages is incredibly important for developing social and communication skills. This approach also makes our sessions ideal for families with both babies and older siblings who would like to participate together.
Can siblings of different ages attend together?
Absolutely! Our multi-sensory stations work well for mixed age groups. Older siblings often help younger ones, creating wonderful bonding opportunities while each child explores at their own developmental level. Siblings (under 6 months) are welcome to sit with you; older siblings may need to book their own spot if joining in the play.
Safety & Materials
Are all materials safe for young children?
Our sensory materials are taste safe and non-toxic as we strive to provide safe materials for exploration. However, children should always be supervised when interacting with materials that could pose a risk of choking or trigger allergies. While many materials are taste-safe, supervision is always required.
What should my child wear to a session?
There will be mess and lots of it! Please dress your child in clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty, as clothing items may become stained. Additionally, bring a towel, baby wipes, and an extra change of clothes for your child. We also recommend that parents wear comfortable clothing, as you may get messy during our sessions too. Please note that this is an outdoor venue, so sunscreen and a hat are vital.
Do you have handwashing and changing facilities?
Yes, we have water stations, a changing station and there are bathrooms on the premises.
Booking & Scheduling
How do I book a session?
Visit www.messyplaykids.co.za to view our calendar and book online. You can see all available dates, times, and monthly themes. We recommend booking in advance as sessions fill up quickly
What if I cannot attend a session? Can I get a refund?
Unfortunately, due to the need to purchase materials and secure our venue in advance, we cannot provide any refunds for missed sessions. However, when availability allows, we can reschedule your session for another day or time, or you can gift your spot to a friend. Please feel free to discuss your options with us.
Do you offer party packages or private sessions?
Yes! We offer birthday party packages and private group bookings at our venue. Contact us for pricing and availability for these special arrangements.
Themes & Activities
How often do themes change?
We introduce a new theme every 4 – 5 weeks, ensuring fresh experiences for regular attendees. Themes might include “Under the Sea,” “Garden Adventures,” “Space Exploration,” or seasonal celebrations. Each theme brings unique colors, textures, and sensory experiences.
Can I attend multiple sessions in one month?
Certainly! While the theme remains consistent throughout the month, each session offers different station setups and activities, so children can attend multiple times and still discover new elements.
Health & Special Needs
What happens if my child has allergies?
Please inform us of any allergies or special dietary requirements your child has before they attend our messy sessions. We use products such as yoghurt and wheat, and we want to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. We’ll review our planned materials with you and discuss any necessary precautions.
Do you accommodate children with special needs?
We welcome all children and aim to create inclusive experiences. Please discuss your child’s specific needs when booking so we can ensure our environment and activities are suitable and enjoyable for them.
My child seems reluctant to participate in messy play. What should I do?
Our facilitators are experienced in reading children’s cues, and our outdoor environment provides natural breathing space. Parents are always encouraged to follow their child’s lead. Some children prefer to observe before participating, and that’s perfectly okay. Take breaks as needed and remember that every child’s comfort level is different.
Parents & Caregivers
Do parents need to stay during sessions?
Yes, parents and caregivers are solely responsible for their children at all times during our sessions. You must remain with your child throughout the session and actively participate. This ensures safety and allows you to share in your child’s discoveries whilst supporting their exploration. Many parents find the sessions as relaxing and enjoyable as their children do!
Practical Information
Where are you located?
We’re located at The Bunny Hop Haven, Observatory Sports Club, 59 Frederick St, Observatory, Johannesburg, 2187. Our sessions take place outdoors in a beautiful, safe environment perfect for messy play exploration.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Our sessions run outdoors, so weather can affect our schedule. In the event of bad weather or rain, we’ll be in touch to reschedule the session. Safety is our priority, and we want everyone to have a comfortable, enjoyable experience.
Shop Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
What are some benefits of sensory play?
Sensory play offers wonderful developmental benefits for children. It builds nerve connections in the brain that enable your child to complete more complex learning tasks, while supporting language development, cognitive growth, fine and gross motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and social interaction. Sensory play enhances memory and can help calm kids who are anxious or frustrated. Through hands-on exploration, children learn about different sensory attributes such as hot, cold, sticky, dry, and wet, helping them develop a deeper awareness of their senses and how they experience the world around them.
How long will my sensory mixes and kits last?
Unfortunately, we’re unable to put an exact shelf life on our sensory mixes and kits, as it can vary greatly based on a number of factors. On average, they will last about 6-8 weeks, with some elements lasting up to 6 months!
It will depend on the climate of the region you live in (humidity, etc), the cleanliness of the hands that play with them, and also the environment they are stored in. Because they are made with food grade ingredients and zero preservatives, our sensory mixes and kits are totally natural and their longevity can vary!
We recommend storing your sensory mixes and kits in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh for as long as possible.
Do your products contain allergens?
Yes, please be aware that some of our sensory mixes and kits may contain common allergens. Our products include gluten, some products may contain egg, and some food grade ingredients may be made in a factory that also processes nuts. If your child has allergies or sensitivities, please supervise play closely and consider whether our products are suitable for your family. Always wash hands thoroughly after play.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping costs are calculated at checkout and depend on your delivery address and weight of your parcel. International customers: please note that various import duties and taxes can be charged on international parcels upon entering different countries. We have no control over these taxes and duties that may be incurred.
All South African orders are delivered by local reputable courier companies and costs are calculated at checkout and depend on the delivery address and weight of the parcel. We will send you tracking details once your order is packaged and ready to ship.
When will I receive my order?
When you place an order on our website, you will receive a confirmation email with a list of all the items you ordered. Once your order is ready to be shipped (this takes about 2-7 business days depending on the items you have ordered), you will receive a text or email from us with your tracking number.
For South African orders: Delivery takes about a day or two depending on the delivery address you provided when placing your order.
For international orders: Delivery takes up to 21 business days depending on the address you provided when you placed your order.
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes! We ship to most countries from South Africa. Please note that various import duties and taxes can be charged on international parcels upon entering different countries. We have no control over these taxes and duties that may be incurred.
How do I track my order?
Once your order has been handed over to the courier, you will receive a tracking number via email with a link to track your parcel. If there is a problem with your delivery address or contact number, please contact us (rachel@messyplaykids.co.za) or contact the courier directly.
What is your refund/return policy?
Unfortunately we are unable to offer refunds due to the handmade nature of our sensory mixes and kits. Always play with clean hands and on clean surfaces.