So it seems the term 'Messy Play' results in one of two reactions; "Absolutely not!" or "Get in!" and there's really nothing in between. If you have clicked on the link for Messy Play I'm guessing you're in the "Get in!" category, but if you click by accident DON'T GO! 

Here's the thing... one of the hardest parts of hospitality can be hospitality-ing children. Whether their visit is planned or they just happened to explode into your house, stopping them from trashing everything or just parking them in front of a movie is always a tough call. So... I have found that having one or two child centred activities to hand is gold.

It's good for lots of reasons but here's a few;

occupied children means better adult conversations.

Children need to be welcomed too and feel they are a part of the family not just an add on.

Knowing your child is welcome means you feel more at ease.

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Messy Play is only as messy as you allow it to become, I'm pretty big on mess and glitter, but it's ok if you're not, you are in charge!

So here's my top tips for messy play;

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1. Always keep a tub/jar/basket/box of something that can be whipped out and used to occupy children who visit.

2. It's also nice to keep a small collection of baby and child based things - whether you are at this stage of life or not. Things like a bag of nappies, some baby wipes, Sippy cups, plastic plates and bowls, spare pants, maybe a high chair. All of these make the mam who is visiting feel like they can relax. You don't need to transform your home but having these few items will say so much to those who come over with kids.

3. Have a quick look round your house and garden and think about anything that might mean danger to a little one, also think about that the rules are for children who visit. Are they allowed upstairs? Can they play in the garden? You don't need to read these rules out when the kids arrive but having these boundaries in your mind will help you.

4. Enjoy it!