We are so lucky to have an amazing children’s museum close by our house. I’ve noticed that every time we go, my toddler is especially drawn to the water area in the museum. In this section there are cups, tubs, tubes, balls, and so many different ways to play with water. My child could literally spend hours there. And there’s a reason for that! Did you know there are some great developmental benefits to water play for children? Not only is it a favorite activity, it helps kids learn ! Keep reading to learn about some of those benefits, and be sure to scroll to the bottom for some of our favorite water toys that we always have on hand to encourage water play at home so you don’t have to head to the museum if you don’t want to!

Benefits of Water Play

Sensory stimulation: Water play provides a unique sensory experience for children, allowing them to explore different textures, temperatures, and consistencies. This can help develop their sense of touch and increase their overall sensory awareness.
Physical development: Water play can help young children develop their motor skills, balance, and coordination. Activities such as pouring, splashing, and stirring can improve hand-eye coordination and strengthen their muscles.
Cognitive development: Water play can help children develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. For example, they may experiment with different objects and observe how they interact with the water, or try to figure out how to make a boat float.
Social development: Water play can also promote social interaction and cooperation among children. They may work together to build a waterway or play a game of water tag, which can help improve their communication and social skills.
Emotional development: Water play can be a calming and soothing activity for children, helping them relax and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of joy and happiness, which can contribute to positive emotional development.

Our Favorite Water Play Toys

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Bath Boats - These cute little boats are numbered so you can practice number identification while you play!

Step 2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table - This is so fun to set up outside during the summer months!
Fishing Set - scooping up those fish is a great way to work on fine motor skills
River and Roads Water Play Table - another great option to set up a water station outside.
Sand and Water Fine Motor set - this is a great set of fine motor tools that encourage water play
Melissa and Doug Sand and Water Funnel - trust me, this provides endless entertainment in the bath
Rushing River Splash Table - I don’t have one of these…yet. It looks so fun!
Measuring cups - sometimes the best toys are the simplest ones

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Play AND Learn!

Water play is a fun and beneficial activity for young children that can promote physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Whether it's playing in a pool, splashing in the bathtub, or exploring water outdoors or at a musem, there are many ways for children to enjoy the benefits of water play. So get out there and play!