Maybe we fear the mess more than we value the play. Is the mess inconvenient? Yep. But when kids get hands-on play, they’re learning cause and effect, problem solving, and creativity (plus they stay way more engaged!) The mess is usually the part we worry about most… but I would argue we should worry about NOT giving kids these experiences. Setting expectations before you start makes a huge difference. Talking about where materials stay and how cleanup will work gives kids clear boundaries. When