Sensory Spaces: Designated Digging Dirt Areas

My definition of “Let Them” pictured below. 😂 Children are going to dig. They are going to explore, and they want to get messy (for the most part). Let them.

It really helped from day one to assign a specific digging area in our space. It’s their own space to get messy and into explore all the senses with shovels, buckets, cars, figurines, water, other nature materials and a bunch of loose parts!

If you’re able to, pick a spot that will give them enough space where they will not be digging or playing super close together. For us to be cleared any rocks or debris from our space. Then we tilled the dirt so it was nice and fluffy. Finally we outlined the area and rocks or stones or bricks… Gave it some kind of a border so the kids knew exactly where to keep the digging contained! After a big rain, we often remove the toys until again to keep things fresh!

Designate an area! The dirt and mud will always wash away— but memories and experiences will stay for a lifetime!