Water play is a brilliant way to keep cool this summer and it supports sensory development, coordination and creativity. Here are three fun and easy water-based craft ideas perfect for babies and toddlers.

1. Rainbow Ice Painting

‍
Fill an ice cube tray with water and add a few drops of food colouring to each section. Insert a lolly stick or plastic spoon before freezing. Once frozen, let little ones paint on large sheets of paper with the coloured ice cubes. It’s cool, colourful and great for hand-eye coordination. Babies can enjoy the sensory feel, while toddlers experiment with patterns and mixing colours.

2. Water Wall Fun

‍
Use recycled bottles, funnels, and tubing to create a simple water wall outside. Attach the items to a fence or wooden frame and provide jugs or cups for pouring. This encourages cause and effect learning, problem solving and motor skills. For an extra twist, add coloured water or use sponges for squeezing and dripping fun. 

3. Floating Boats Craft

‍
Make simple boats using sponge pieces with a small paper sail attached to a cocktail stick. Children can decorate their sails with stickers or drawings. Float the boats in a water tray and watch them sail. Great for fine motor skills and imaginative play.

‍

All three activities are easy to set up and ideal for warm weather or indoor sensory play (if there is a summer rain shower!). Always supervise closely and adapt for different ages and stages.

Water play is a wonderful way to learn through joyful, splashy discovery.

‍