When Jenny Smith found out her eldest daughter had some sensory issues it peaked her interest in how messy play could help.
Now running Little Messy Learners, Ms Smith is giving the opportunity for other children to interact with different sensory elements at their own pace.
The business, which is the first of it's kind in Mandurah, engages children in pre-writing skills by increasing hand, finger and arm strength.
"I offer messy play both wet and dry, we do dancing to start, craft activities and painting," Ms Smith said.
"Birthday parties are hands down one of the most popular things I do - I have a booking for a birthday every single weekend usually.
"It's interesting to see how different children interact with the activities I provide.
"We have a few children who have been coming for over a year and when they first came to classes they wouldn't go near anything and now they're engaging fully in all the activities."
Just over two years since starting her business, Ms Smith has now been nominated for a national award.
Little Messy Learners has been nominated in a number of categories in the What's On 4 Kids Awards including Best Kids Party Provider, Outstanding Coach/Teacher for 0-5 year olds, Best Local Franchisee Baby/Toddler Activity and Best Local Franchisee Preschooler Activity.
"I'm really excited to be nominated," Ms Smith said.
"I was a finalist in the Peel Business Awards last year but this is the first national award I've been a part of.
"I'm up against a lot of big companies and a lot of different businesses from across Australia - it's going to be really interesting to see how everyone goes."
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With the awards based on people's choice, Ms Smith is urging the Peel region to get behind Little Messy Learners.
"With my business it's not just myself it's a real family investment," she said.
"It would mean as much to my family for me to win an award as it would do for me and the business.
"It would be great to have a local business get a national award."
To vote for Little Messy Learners visit, https://www.whatson4kids.com.au/awards/awards-voting/
The closing date for voting is April 28 and anyone who votes has a chance to win four tickets to Paw Patrol Live at the RAC Arena in May.