I don’t know about anybody else, but we could be in an expansive field of green grass, but if there is one tiny section of mud, my kids will find it.  They will swarm to it like fruit flies to a ripe banana.  They seem to love the squishiness and messiness of  the mud, in fact, squishy and messy is a combination they love in just about anything.  That is perhaps why tactile play is such a good idea.  Tactile play is basically messy play.  It allows kids to touch and feel textures and shapes.  Now that it’s getting warmer, there should be many more opportunities for tactile play.  It’s understandable if you don’t want to put jell-o on you kitchen floor, but take it outside!  Put you kids in their grimiest play clothes and let them have at it.  I found this great site with loads of great ideas.  Your kids will think you’ve lost your mind, but they will love you for it!