Water play is a dynamic and engaging activity that holds a special place in early childhood education, offering many developmental benefits and endless fun. At Children’s Discovery Center, we view this activity as a way to foster exploration, creativity and learning. 

The Importance of Water Play in Early Childhood Education

When coupled with STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) lessons, water play brings more than fun. It becomes an enriching outlet for our young learners! These activities offer the following developmental benefits:

• Sensory Development: Water play stimulates the senses. Children experience different textures, temperatures and movements, which enhance their sensory perception and help develop fine motor skills as they pour, splash and manipulate water.

• Cognitive Development: Water play encourages children to think, question and solve problems. Young discoverers observe how water flows, what objects float or sink and experiment with water’s properties. These activities naturally introduce basic scientific concepts, planting the seeds for curiosity and cognitive growth at an early age.

• Physical Development: Pouring, stirring and splashing water helps children develop gross and fine motor skills. These activities require coordination and control, which are vital for physical development.

• Social and Emotional Development: Water play is often a collaborative activity. Children learn to share, take turns and communicate with their peers, building essential social skills. It also provides a calming effect, helping children regulate their emotions and develop patience.

In addition to these developmental benefits, water play often involves outdoor exploration. It connects children with nature and nurtures a sense of wonder and respect for the environment, making water play a perfect pairing for CDC’s Reggio Emilia approach.

At-Home Water Play Activities

Water play isn’t limited to the classroom; there are many ways parents can incorporate it into their children’s routine at home to build upon the lessons learned at their early childhood education center. 

These at-home water play activities can help get you started:

1. Bath Time Fun: Turn bath time into a learning experience by adding measuring cups, funnels and sponges. Encourage your child to explore pouring, squeezing and measuring.

2. Outdoor Water Tables: Set up a simple water table in your backyard, adding everyday household items like plastic containers, spoons, toys and food coloring. 

3. Sink or Float: Fill a basin with water and gather a variety of objects. Ask your child to predict which items will sink or float, then test their hypotheses. This simple activity promotes scientific thinking and observation skills.

4. Painting with Water: On a warm day, give your child a bucket of water and a paintbrush. Let them “paint” on sidewalks, fences or walls. This activity not only enhances fine motor skills but also sparks creativity without mess.

Make a Splash in Your Child’s Early Learning Journey

Immerse your child in a compassionate and intentional learning environment! For more than 40 years, Children’s Discovery Center has helped guide and expand the minds of Toledo’s youngest explorers. Our dedicated staff nurtures children into lifelong learners by providing an innovative environment promoting self-led discovery. Contact us today to learn more about our Reggio Emilia approach to learning, register your child and tour our facilities.