Kids In The Sandbox

The outdoors is a great setting for kids to have fun and enjoy the fresh air. There will not be a shortage of enjoyable activities, games, and toys to encourage kids to partake in the warmth and welcoming arms of the backyard; it just takes a little imagination with the help of some great outdoor equipments or structures to have them wiling away the hours in the freshness of the open-air.

The sandbox has perhaps been a great childhood tradition. It always puts a smile on people’s faces to see kids in the sandbox. A simple box full of sand may be hyped by adding four legs, benches on its sides, and a canvas top or board; the benches will not only provide comfortable and better positions for playing kids in the sandbox, but it will also avoid the problem of “sand carry’ into the house.

The sandbox is not an expensive type of outdoor play equipment and they are great additions to your child’s entertainment; it can provide them with hours of “playtime” just by building sandcastles or structuring “stuff” with sand. Moreover, one can easily build their own children’s sandbox in their backyard. If you have the do-it-yourself skill, here’s how:

How To Select The Materials

Choosing the right quality materials for the sandbox is important as it will be exposed to outdoor elements so it should be durable enough to withstand them.

Step 1: Pick out four pieces of 2x6x12 construction-grade lumber which are accurate and straight.

Step 2: Cut and mark the pieces of lumber with letter labels or pencil as follows: Letter A for two 60-inch lumber pieces (long sides); Letter B for two 57-inch lumber pieces (short sides); Letter C for four 68-inch lumber pieces (benches); and letter D for eight 6-inch lumber pieces (support blocks).

Step 3: Miter cut the two ends of every “C” lumber piece on opposite 45-degree angles.

Assembling The Sandbox

It is important to assemble the sandbox properly and attach them securely to avoid easy breakage when the heavy sand is placed inside.

Step 1: Use weatherized 2 ½ -inch long wood screws, and assemble where the sandbox will be placed.

Step 2: Prepare the two pieces of “A” lumber (long sides) up on rim in parallel position about fifty-seven inches apart.
Step 3: Position the two pieces of “B” lumber (short sides) in between the “long sides” at every end so they shape flush, square corners. Utilize two to three screws for every corner to fasten them together.

Step 4: Fasten two pieces of the “D” lumber (support blocks) on the exterior of all sides of the square, about six-inches from every corner. Ensure that every top edge is level.

Step 5: Position the “C” pieces of lumber (benches) around the box’s top edge. Adjust them to ensure that every inside edge is flush, and its angled corners are taut. Fasten the benches to the support blocks and the top of every side.

Step 6: The sandbox is ready for sand filling, and about one ton of sand is needed to fill this size of a sandbox.

One can use a sandbox cover to wrap the sandbox when it is not in use to avoid sand from getting out when it is windy, or to prevent it from getting wet in case of sudden rain. Other additions to the sandbox can be made, such as roofing or painting it in colorful hues to add excitement for kids.

The sandbox can provide both entertainment and learning skills for any child, sand plays is especially helpful in developing the physical and cognitive skills of children. So get those playing kids in the sandbox, and provide them with an enjoyable and educating activity outdoors.