FAQs

toddler painting outside, sticks and leaves stuck to cardboard at a messy play session

What is Mud Buddies?

Mud Buddies Perth is a nature-based sensory playgroup in Perth, located NOR (primarily Swan Valley and Noranda). Our sessions offer messy play, sensory activities and nature play designed for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

Mud Buddies was created by a local mum (Hi, I’m Eve!) who wanted to build a relaxed outdoor playgroup where children can explore, create and get wonderfully messy in nature!

What days do you run?

Mud Buddies sensory play sessions currently run weekly on Mondays during the school term, with additional pop-up messy play sessions on Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the term.

For upcoming session dates and bookings, please visit the Book page.

What ages is this for?

Our sessions are aimed at children 0-5 years old (babies under 6 months attend free).

We do use some food-based sensory bases, so mouthing materials for babies under 6 months is not recommended.

We are also able to cater for older children too, as we recognise that sensory play doesn’t really have an age limit!

How much do sessions cost?

Casual sessions are currently $25 per child, with siblings able to be added for just $9.

We also offer term passes and flexible session passes, which give you a discounted rate if you plan on attending regularly.

Pop-up session prices vary depending on the theme, so please see the Book page for pricing and availability for upcoming sessions.

What happens in a session?

After checking in at the desk, you and your little one are free to explore.

We’re big believers in child-led play, so children can roam between stations and explore at their own pace.

Each session usually includes a mix of sensory experiences such as:

• potion play
• arts and crafts
• wet and dry sensory trays
• nature play invitations
• water play
• a quiet corner or baby mat

We try to cater to a wide range of sensory preferences, but one thing you can always expect is messy, creative, nature-inspired play.

And please don’t stress about the mess! Learning through messy play is one of the best ways for children to explore the world (and I’ve got the clean-up covered for you!).

What should I bring?

Yourself and your little Muddy Buddy is a fantastic start!

We also recommend bringing:

• a change of clothes
• hat and sunscreen
• water bottle and snacks

For allergy reasons, we do ask that children move away from the sensory stations while eating.

What if I can no longer make a session?

I’m a parent myself and know that life happens!

If you let me know the night before your session (via Instagram or email), we’re happy to offer a full credit that can be used towards another Mud Buddies session.

Credits are not refundable but can be used for future sessions.

Unfortunately, cancellations made on the morning of the session cannot be credited as preparations have already been finalised. However, you’re welcome to gift your spot to a friend or let me know and I can pass it on to another family.

Term passes and flexible passes are non-refundable.

What is sensory play?

Sensory play involves activities that stimulate a child’s senses, including touch, sight, smell and movement. Examples include water play, messy play, textured materials and nature exploration.

At Mud Buddies Perth, our sensory play setups are designed to support curiosity, creativity and early childhood development while allowing children to explore freely in a calm outdoor environment.

Why is messy play important for toddlers?

Messy play allows children to explore textures, experiment with cause and effect, and build confidence through hands-on learning.

It also supports fine motor development, creativity and emotional regulation, while encouraging children to follow their curiosity.

At Mud Buddies, messy play is a big part of our sessions, giving children the freedom to explore, create and learn through play in nature.

Where are Mud Buddies sensory play sessions located?

Mud Buddies runs outdoor sensory play and messy play sessions in Perth, primarily in Swan Valley and Noranda, NOR Perth.

Our sessions provide a relaxed outdoor playgroup where babies, toddlers and preschoolers can explore nature-based sensory play in a welcoming community environment.

Do you offer birthday parties or private events?

Yes! Mud Buddies does offer sensory play and messy play parties in Perth, perfect for little ones who love getting hands-on with nature, creativity and a bit of mud.

Because Mud Buddies is a small, mama-run business and most of our time is dedicated to our regular sessions (and turdler!), we only take on a very limited number of private parties and events each year.

If you’re interested in a Mud Buddies party, feel free to get in touch via the Contact page to check availability and chat about options!