Mud day a big hit for children

Featured were troughs filled with water, sand, toy trucks and diggers, and mud coloured paint, a slippery slide and mud pie custard for afternoon tea.

Teddy Bear Corner Child Care owner and director Tania Hyde said the event was all about allowing children to explore and connect with nature. “As educators we are aware of the research surrounding the benefits of nature to children by improving their health and well-being and enhancing their development,” she said.

While they might not have completely understood why they were free to get as muddy as they wanted, the amount of fun children had doing it was clear for all to see.

Ms Hyde said parents needed little convincing to allow children to take part.

“They all sent their children with clothes to get grubby in; gumboots, rain coats, spare clothes and towels,” she said.

“All of our staff got involved too.”

The Harvest Lakes Residents Association hosted a children’s planting day dubbed Muddy Sunday in celebration of the event.