Elmhurst Academy students play in the mud for class project

Mud play for children is often cause for an early bath and discipline from mom and dad but it was an educational experience for students at Elmhurst Academy June 25 as they participated in International Mud Day.

Started in 2009 by one teacher in Nepal and another in Australia to connect their students with the earth and each other, it has grown to include children all over the world, according to a news release from Elmhurst Academy.

Youngsters from infants through preschool age “wallowed” in a giant mud pit, painted with mud, took sensory mud walks and created dishes in a mud kitchen, according to the release. Many were completely covered by the end of the day.

Nature Curriculum Specialist Kaitlyn Berger said the activities encourage children to use all of their senses. She said it fits in with the school’s philosophy.

“We consider the outdoors another classroom,” Berger said in the release. “Our students spend a portion of almost every day exploring the extensive facilities we’ve constructed. Many studies have shown the benefits of direct contact with nature from reducing stress to boosting creativity. Mud days bring children those benefits but for them it’s just fun.”