07.08 Weekly Message

Hi Mamas!

I must confess, I’ve often shied away from water play because it always felt like a huge production. But as summer rolled in, I challenged myself to simplify things and make water play work for us during the summer season and hopefully beyond.

Here are a few things that have worked for me:

• Getting the Right Tools: Investing in simple, versatile water play tools has made all the difference.

• Simplifying the Station: Keeping it easy to set up and clean up has helped us enjoy water play without the stress.

• Designating a Water Play Area: Having a specific spot for water activities has kept the mess contained and the fun flowing.

Water play is not only refreshing but also a fantastic way to engage our kids in sensory and physical activities. If you feel a bit intimidated by water play because you don’t have outside space or you’re unsure where to start, read on for more practical tips and ideas!

Containers: Essential for setting up an easy water station.

• Bins: Perfect for indoor play. I prefer smaller ones because they require less water. I like setting up two for transfer activities. Check out my favorites here.

• Kiddie Pool: A small kiddie pool is perfect for outdoor water play. I like the size of these because they are quick to fill up and versatile since kids can either play from outside or get in depending on the activity. Find one here.

Basic Tools: Have these ready to go for easy setup.

• Scoops: Great for pouring and transferring water, helping improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. (link to scoops)

• Bowls: Use them for filling, pouring, and even floating activities. I prefer silicone or stainless steel as they are safer and more durable. (link to bowls)

Toys: A quick way to add excitement to your setup.

• Balls: These colorful water balls are fun and environmentally friendly. They can be reused endlessly. (link to water balls)

• Bath Toys: Mold-free bath toys are essential for safe water play, preventing mold build-up for a hygienic experience. (link to mold-free toys)

To see more water play essentials click here.

MOVEMENT: Water play has been a fantastic movement activity for us. Emi likes to run around in the grass and then hop back into her kiddie pool. She also enjoys throwing water balls, which is great for coordination. Another favorite is playing with sprinklers.

SENSORY: Emi loves exploring different seashells, feeling their textures, and admiring their colors. We’ve also been getting into Frozen Treasures, a simple setup where small items are frozen in ice cubes. Kids can then explore melting them in water.

MUSIC: We love to sing songs while playing in the water. One of Emi’s favorite songs is about a frog swimming in the river, so we have a little froggie that we sing with. Another fun idea is a Water Xylophone: Fill different containers with varying levels of water and let kids explore making music by tapping them.

LANGUAGE: Water play can also be a great opportunity for language development. Incorporate items under a theme and talk about them with your little one. Alternatively, have Water Story Time. We received this waterproof book from our aunt, and it’s been a hit! The book changes colors when it hits the water, making it perfect for both bath time and water play.

NATURE: In my opinion, the best water play option is nature itself. No setup or cleanup required! Find local spots where your little one can splash around, throw rocks in a pond, or watch fish swimming.

ART: We had a sweet moment the other day as Emi and Nanny left water footprints on the concrete after some fun water play. This moment sparked our interest in Water Painting: Use paintbrushes and water to "paint" on sidewalks or concrete surfaces and watch the designs evaporate.

PRACTICAL SKILLS: Lately, I’ve been focusing on activities that involve practicing pouring water from one container to another, enhancing motor skills. Another activity I’d like to try is a Washing Station: Set up a station where your little one can wash their toy cars, dolls, or dishes, learning practical life skills.

ps. All my free printables are available here.

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