Fun in the Sand: 7 Creative Sandboxes You Can Make Yourself

7 creative sandboxes to make for your kids
7 creative sandboxes to make for your kids

In a world of technology, the lure of screens is powerful force.

Look around the playground and you'll often note 3 out of 4 adults with their faces buried in a smart phone. For kids, the ability of a screen to hypnotize is even stronger. Not many things can compete for a little one's attention when there's a TV, iPad, or video toy blinking its way into their heart. Which is why i find it all the more wonderful that there is still one toy so simple, inexpensive, and universal that has the power to draw children outdoors and into active play: A box of sand.

It doesn't matter what size or how fancy it is - there's something about running your fingers and toes through the sand that's therapeutic and just plain fun. Heck, I even enjoy taking a break to build a sand castle or two (or three or four). Since not everyone has the space to build a 7×7 foot sandbox, there are plenty of portable and mini sandbox options for your family to enjoy. Not a master carpenter? Don't worry - because a painted tire, wreath container, or plastic pool can do just fine. Check out 7 creative sandboxes you can make yourself:

Shaded Comfort
Shaded Comfort

1. Shaded Comfort Sandbox


This adorable canopy sandbox is not too difficult to make and was inspired by the cutest Pottery Barn Kids sandbox. If you're down to DIY, it's a much more budget-friendly option!
Make this sandbox

















Related: The 20 most amazing tree houses from around the world

Wine Barrel Sandbox
Wine Barrel Sandbox








2. Wine Barrel Sandbox


Fill an old wine barrel with sand, rocks and seashells for a mini sandbox.
Make this sandbox















Recycled Pool Sandbox
Recycled Pool Sandbox

3. Recycled Pool Sandbox


Instead of throwing out an old plastic swimming pool, use it to make a fun sandbox.
Make this sandbox














Related: 8 outdoor activities that are more fun than video games

Tire Sandbox
Tire Sandbox









4. Tire Sandbox


Clean out an old tire and fill it with sand, paint it to add some bright colors.
Make this sandbox
















$10 Sandbox
$10 Sandbox

5. $10 Sandbox


Keep expenses low by building a sandbox out of a wreath container.
Make this sandbox














Related: 15 memories from childhood our kids won't have

Sandbox on Wheels
Sandbox on Wheels










6. Sandbox on Wheels


With the right tools in hand, you can make this sandbox on wheels in under 2 hours.
Make this sandbox




















Your Basic Sandbox
Your Basic Sandbox


7. Your Basic Sandbox


If you are not looking to build anything fancy schmancy this DIY sandbox is a go-to basic.
Make this sandbox















- By Jamie Morrison Curtis
Follow Jamie on Babble

For 18 more creative homemade sandboxes, visit Babble!

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