Why getting messy is good

Playing outside and getting messy may just seem like fun to kids, but playtime actually has an important role in child development.

Research shows that various types of play and parental interaction are vital to the healthy development of children. Award-winning child care author of "The Big Book of Parenting Solutions," and mom of three, Dr. Michele Borba has teamed up with Oxi-Active, a laundry detergent, to spread the message that it's OK to let the little ones get dirty.

"By teaching kids that it's OK to get messy sometimes and even encouraging it occasionally, we as parents show them that nobody is perfect, that accidents happen and most importantly, we teach them to be themselves," said Borba. "Childhood is just too short to worry about getting dirty."

"We've always known that kids and play are just a natural combo," Borba said. "But new research also shows that letting kids engage in self-directed play has immense value for their social, emotional, cognitive and physical growth."

Play expands kids' minds and neurological development. Self-initiated play improves skills like problem solving and interpreting and is important to brain development and learning.

Making up games boosts children's creativity and imagination, giving them the chance to invent, build, explore and develop a whole different part of the brain.

Play boosts self-confidence and self-regulation. Kids learn to become masters of their own destiny without an adult directing, pushing, managing or scheduling. Play helps kids learn to enjoy just being in their own company, entertaining themselves and developing identity.

Ease that guilt when your kid says, "I'm bored, Mom," and wants you to amuse him.