Big Mess Sensory Play – Child-Led Messy Play Classes in Surrey & Hampshire

Big Mess Sensory Play offers child-led messy play classes for babies and young children aged 6 months to 5 years. Our sensory play sessions are designed to support early learning and development through hands-on exploration in a fun, relaxed and welcoming environment.

Children are encouraged to explore textures, colours, smells and materials at their own pace, building confidence, curiosity and essential early skills through play. Sessions are carefully planned to be age-appropriate, engaging and developmentally supportive.

Our messy play classes are parent-led, meaning parents and carers stay with their child throughout the session, supporting and exploring alongside them. We create the sensory experiences, provide all materials, and take care of the clean-up so you can focus on enjoying the moment with your child.

Big Mess Sensory Play is ideal for babies, toddlers and preschool-aged children who love to explore, get messy and learn through play. Messy play supports:

• Sensory development
• Fine motor skills
• Confidence and independence
• Curiosity and creativity
• Early learning through exploration

Our Classes

We currently offer two types of messy play classes, designed to suit different stages of development.

Taste-Safe Sensory Play

Ideal for babies and younger toddlers, particularly those who are still exploring with their mouths (typically up to around 18 months).

These sessions use taste-safe materials, allowing little ones to explore freely while parents feel confident about what their child is touching and mouthing. Activities are designed with little mouths in mind while still providing a rich sensory experience.

Big Mess

Ideal for children aged 18 months–5 years who love making a bigger mess and no longer require taste-safe play.

Big Mess sessions allow for bigger, bolder messy play, using a wider range of materials for children who are confident exploring without mouthing. These sessions are perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who want to make a real impact with their mess and fully immerse themselves in messy play.

How Do I Know Which Class to Choose?

All children are welcome to attend either session, and parents are encouraged to choose the class that best suits their child’s stage of development and individual needs.

• If your child is still mouthing materials or exploring primarily through taste, a taste-safe session is usually the best fit.
• If your child is confident exploring messy play without eating the materials, Big Mess allows for bigger, more adventurous play.
• Younger children are welcome to attend Big Mess sessions when accompanying an older sibling. Please note that not all activities in these sessions will be taste-safe, and close supervision is required.

If you’re ever unsure which class is best for your child, you’re always welcome to get in touch for guidance.

Sessions include a variety of messy and sensory play activities such as squishy, sticky, wet and dry textures, creative play trays, water play, bubbles, foam and painting. Each week features a different theme, while core activities remain familiar to help children feel confident and settled.

Classes take place in a safe, friendly setting and are perfect for parents looking for a relaxed baby or toddler activity where mess is not only allowed, but encouraged.

If you’re looking for messy play classes near you, Big Mess Sensory Play offers a space where children can explore freely, learn through play and make big messes… without the mess at home.

👉 Book a class today and come and get messy with us.