23/02/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/17aPpnAKxD/?mibextid=wwXIfr
New research from Queen Margaret University is highlighting the science behind something we see every day 🤩
Climbing, balancing, exploring — we know risky play matters. But what about mud, soil and microbes? What's the science behind equally beneficial 'dirty play'?
We're talking unstructured, hands-in-the-soil, mud-on-your-sleeves kind of play!
Evidence from microbiome science and public health suggests that regular contact with biodiverse natural environments can:
🌱 Support immune system development
🌱 Reduce risk of inflammatory and allergic conditions
🌱 Strengthen emotional wellbeing
🌱 Build curiosity and connection to nature
In increasingly urban, sanitised environments, children have fewer opportunities for this kind of rich sensory exposure - and it may matter more than we realised.
When children dig, build, mix, explore and get gloriously muddy, they’re not just “making a mess.” They’re developing resilience, regulation and relationships — with nature and with themselves.
In nature-rich play, children find health, confidence and connection - all at once.
[Ref: Barrable, A. and Robinson, J.M. (2026) ‘From risky play to dirty play: why young children need “dirty” nature play in their lives’]
