Backyard Nature Fun: Mud Painting

This post is part of “Your Green Hour Survival Guide,” a series which I hope will inspire you to make getting outside every day a habit.

I realize that the thought of your kids getting knee-deep in thick, gooey, squelchy mud might make some of you cringe. But there’s no denying a child’s natural affinity for the stuff.

The Explorers are no different. In the past, they’ve made mudcakes, mud prints and run through mud puddles in the grass. Just last week, they decided to do some painting with mud. But not on just any canvas. Nope – these guys decided to paint their bikes.

They were very serious about their efforts, getting out the paintbrushes and making sure not to miss even the smallest of spots.

After both of their bikes had been painted with mud, they naturally began to paint themselves.

When they were good and covered in mud, they looked back to their bikes and figured a washing was in order. Adding time with the hose and water to the mix is like kid heaven. Before long, this was the scene.

I’m continually amazed at the power of mud play. There is no fighting in mud play. No crying, hitting or yelling at each other, either. And those aren’t my rules. They are the unspoken rules of mud play.

That my friends, is why I continue to encourage, promote and support whatever mud fun they can dream up.

If you’re looking for some new ways to play with mud, check out 30+ Dirty Kid Activities from hands on: as we grow.

I’d love to hear your kid’s favorite ways to play in mud, so leave me a comment and let me know!