Sand play

There is nothing like wet sand on a hot sunny day. It is a wonderful open ended activity that needs nothing more than sand and hands.
Developmental facts about sand play:
It is sensory and encourages exploration and imagination and social skills if done in a group of two or more.
It developments muscle strength in hands and arms and in the upper body.
Measuring and pouring and constructing help develop maths and science concepts such as full and empty, big and small.
It develops language skills when sharing, explaining and telling stories of what is happening. Read more:

Sand Play extras

Natural materials: stones, shells, pine cones, leaves, flowers, large smooth rocks,

Kitchen equipment: RECYCLE: drink bottles, spatulas, rolling pins, funnels, sieves, colanders, measuring spoons and cups, scoops, wooden spoons, plastic spoons, plastic containers, egg cartons, scales, plastic mixing bowls, jugs, plastic bowls and dishes, potato masher, plastic cookie cutters, pots and pans.

Sand Toys: sand wheel, bucket, spade, digger, sand combs or wide toothed combs

Toys:
- blocks and block people
- shakers
- plastic animals
- play kitchen
- magnifiers
- vehicles including trucks
- train tunnels
- trees 
- people
- tea set

Household items:
- pegs
- pieces of material
- straws
- gardening tools and gloves
- tubes and cylinders
- child size table and chairs 



Rules for the sandpit:
Don't throw sand
Don't eat sand

Sandpit cleanliness:
Sun is a great sanitiser.
Cover sandpit when it is not in use or when you leave the play area.

Books to read to pre-schoolers about sand:

Jump Into Science: Sand for 4 to 8 year olds
The Seashore Book for 4 to 8 year olds
Miranda's Beach Day for ages 3 to 8

Recommended toys:
Green Toys Sand Play Set is made from recycled plastic milk containers that save energy, reduce landfill waste and lower greenhouse gas emissions, all in the name of good green fun.