Sandboxes
Sandboxes,  or sandpits, are great for encouraging creativity in children. Kids can build sand castles, "ride" trucks that carry sand, or dig holes. They are especially useful if you don't have a beach nearby. Sandboxes come in a variety of sizes and prices. When choosing a sandbox, consider how many children will be playing in it. If it's only one or two children, you can get by with a smaller sandbox. If three or more children will be building sand castles often, then you might want to consider buying a larger sandbox so there aren't any arguments over who gets to use the sandbox first. Sandboxes can be wooden or made out of plastic. Plastic sandboxes are usually less expensive and are often shaped like an animal or a favorite cartoon character. Wooden sandboxes give children the luxury of sitting on the edge, but plastic sandboxes often have covers to them (preventing rain and cats confusing the sandbox for a litterbox from getting in). The sand in sandboxes gets dirty and needs to be replaced from time to time. There is special sandbox sand that is safe and doesn't stain clothing, but many people use normal building sand because it is cheaper. Building sand, however, often has clay in it that can stain clothing. Also, make sure whatever material you put inside the sandbox is safe and non-toxic.
Build Your Own Sandbox
Many people choose to build their own sandboxes. This gives you more creative control (want a storage spot on the sandbox for the lid? No problem) and can be less expensive in most cases. The first step in building a wooden sandbox is to find the perfect spot, since it will be stationary. Sketch out your design and decide on the size of the box. The size will tell you how much lumber and sand to buy. Not good with math? Take the sketch to a local home improvement/lumber store and ask for help. Sandboxes do not need a bottom, but you may want to make one anyway to protect the ground from becoming messy. The bottom can be made out of laminate flooring material, wood, or plastic. When buying lumber, you can have it cut to the appropriate sizes right there at the home improvement store, or, if you are good with a saw, you can take the lumber home and cut it yourself. Make sure to ask what sorts of nuts and bolts you will need to connect the pieces of wood together.
Money Saving Ideas- Use a plastic tarp instead of buying a lid.
- Use untreated lumber instead of pressure treated wood. The longevity of your box will decrease, but you will save approximately $50 on lumber.
- Buy building sand (but make sure it's non-toxic and safe!) instead of toy box sand. If you or a friend has a large truck, you can save money by picking it up yourself rather than getting it delivered.
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