Kids love sand, and having a sandbox is one of the easiest ways to get kids outside playing. I adore this simple DIY sandbox. It is portable but large enough for kids to play. It has a solid lid to keep the sand clean when it is not being used. Throw it together in seconds for hours of play!
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Super Simple DIY Kids Sandbox for Sensory Fun All Summer Long
What You'll Find on This Page
SANDBOX MATERIALS:
I got this idea for a sandbox after realizing how expensive the standard kiddie sandboxes were! This underbed storage bin is roughly the same size, cost half the price of the cheapest sandbox I could find, and comes with the bonus of a lid that locks into place – no worrying about it getting blown off or knocked off by animals! It has been a huge hit with the kids, too! They will play in the sand for hours, and it is a wonderful way to get them outdoors in the beautiful weather we have been enjoying!
More Sensory Play Ideas
Kids love sensory play, and sand is one of the best sensory play materials out there. Here are some more sensory play ideas kids love:
Mess Free Sensory Play
Sensory play doesn’t have to be messy! Here are a couple of our favorite mess-free ideas:
Simple Sensory Play Ideas
Sensory play can also be incredibly simple:
I am always looking for new ways to play with my kids. Do you have an idea that your kids love? Share it on my Facebook page and we will give it a go!
What are your favorite frugal parenting hacks? Is there a summer activity that you do with your kids over and over?
Have you used this type of container as a sandbox? What did you think?
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MaryAnne is a craft loving educator, musician, photographer, and writer who lives in Silicon Valley with her husband Mike and their four children.
I did this once but used lentils, then we could use it inside during the winter…super fun and the clean-up was easier than sand for an indoor activity. Going to give this a try this summer though! Great idea!!
Lentils indoor would be great!
Oh yes thank you!! I have been planning on getting some sort of sand box for my little man but am broke so this is perfect! Thanks for sharing!
It has worked out great for us – hope it does for you, too!
MaryAnne, it might be awhile but wanted to let you know I added this post to an upcoming one on thirfty tips on ABC & 123. Thanks for sharing as always!
I posted my even-smaller version today: http://dollarstorecrafts.com/2009/04/portable-sandbox/
Great idea! Thanks for sharing!!
Heather
Oooooh, good idea!! Hubby was thinking about making our daughter one, but he’s rethinking the construction plans! This will be quick and easy! ;)
Very creative.
Mike
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You rule! The next thing I have ready to post when I get a chance has a pic of my two playing in an under the bed storage box that we use to splash in outside. Works a treat. I love the idea of using one with a lid for the sand to go with it.
Would you believe that: 1) we have four of these that I tried unsuccessfully to sell on craig’s list because they don’t fit under our new bed and 2) we’re currently househunting and a sand table is on my list of things to buy once we have a yard? Thanks! :)
Super great idea. I’m gonna have to do this.
Great idea. Love that there is a cover!
My kids love the sandbox! Great idea, and I am loving the lid too!
very good idea, I like it being small to move around.
That’s a lovely sandbox and very reasonably priced. Look’s fun!
(The crayon rubbings we did for the unplugged project were done with a set of vehicle stencils and a rainbow crayon)
I like it. Small enough for the deck and the lid closes tight so the cats can’t get in there and do their business.