Kids don't need expensive, technologically-oriented toys in order to tap into their creative and imaginative powers. All that's required to get kids' creative juices flowing are open-ended basics that can be found easily and at little cost. One popular example of this kind of toy is a sandbox. A big box or pit of sand and a few simple tools can keep kids occupied for hours.
Keeping the sandbox in good shape, though, is essential to ensuring that it remains a healthy and safe area for play. Unfortunately, the backyard sandbox is often overlooked when it comes to play area maintenance. Here are four tips that will make backyard sandbox maintenance quick and easy:
1. Replace the sand.
Over time, the sand in outdoor sand pits or sandboxes gets dirty and should be completely changed. As a general rule, replacing sand each year or two is usually sufficient, but more frequent changes may be necessary depending on how often children play in the box and whether a sandbox cover is regularly used. Play sand, rather than building sand, is the ideal choice for children's play areas because it is cleaner and free of materials, like clay, that are likely to stain clothing and skin.
2. Inspect sand toys.
Shovels, rakes, and other toys intended for sand play are not usually the sturdiest of tools. Consequently, they don't often survive more than a year or two. When sand toys or other tools used in the sandbox break, they can have sharp edges or pointy parts that can cause injuries. Before allowing kids to play in the sandbox this year, take a moment to examine their sand toys. Toss out any broken or worn out tools, and replace them with tools made from more durable materials.
3. Check sand on a regular basis.
Don't assume that the sandbox will stay in the same good shape throughout the spring and summer. Sharp sticks, rocks, and other debris find their way into play sand quite easily. Also, sand toys may not be able to withstand the stresses put upon them by children during active play. Checking the sand on a weekly basis allows you to discover and remove any potentially harmful debris and broken toys. You may also find that replenishing the play sand during these check-ups is necessary, especially if kids have spent any time shoveling it out of the box.
4. Cover the sandbox.
Sandbox covers are not used as extensively or as frequently as they should be, but they are one of the easiest and most effective ways of maintaining a safe and healthy sandbox. When used properly, sandbox covers stop excess debris, like leaves, sticks, and rocks, from getting into the sand and creating a potential danger to children. Sandbox covers also protect sand from blowing away in heavy winds, and they keep insects from burrowing and nesting in the sand. Most importantly, sandbox covers prevent play sand from being polluted by animals who use the sandbox as their toilet.
The key to using sandbox covers successfully, of course, is to use them regularly when children are not playing in the box. Use sandbox covers that are made to fit your sandbox. Tarps and other makeshift covers can be easily damaged or removed by animals or strong winds, making them unreliable and ineffective.
On the whole, maintaining the backyard sandbox is an easy job that requires little time and few supplies. Keeping all play areas safe and healthy for your kids will give you peace of mind, and will provide your kids and their imaginations with hours of good, clean, simple fun.
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