Summer Sandbox Fun: 5 Design Ideas Your Kids Will Dig

As summer draws near, your thoughts may be turning to fun afternoons outside enjoying your yard and getting you and yours some fresh air and sunshine. A survey for the National Association of Landscape Professionals found that 75% of Americans value time spent outside in the yard. A new sandbox makes a great addition and extra attraction, and is relatively easy to build. Sand for sandboxes comes in various forms. You can use fine sand or a combination of utility sand, construction sand, and crushed gravel for your fill. Sand and gravel delivery service makes the fill process that much easier. There’s always the classic sandbox, but consider these creative ideas for the coolest sandbox in the neighborhood.

The Pallet Box. Rather than tossing out those used pallets, they can be sanded, painted, assembled into formation and filled with sand for an easy play piece.

The Picnic Table Box. This idea is great for those with smaller yards that may not have sufficient room for a full-size sandbox, and provides both seating and sand play. Simply build a frame around the table top, fill it with sand, and add pals and shovels. Your kids can sit or kneel on the table’s seats while building sand castles on the tabletop.

The Tire Box. If you’ve got an old tractor, or other large tire, you can simply lay down liner under the tire, paint the tire in fun colors if you wish, and fill the center with sand. Adhering pool noodles to metal edges keeps things safe.

The Bed Box. This one requires a flat platform bed frame. Fill with sand or a combination of sand and crushed gravel and you are good to go. Bonus points for bed frames with a headboard. Fasten a chalkboard onto the headboard for extra fun.

The Tent Box. Repurpose that old or unused camping tent that’s just taking up space and turn it into a sandbox complete with shade. Once the tent is set up and filled, kids can play inside. This option is also great for kids especially sensitive to direct sun exposure.

One caution: If you make your sandbox cool enough, your yard may become the go-to fun spot for the neighborhood. You may need to stock up on lemonade and refreshing cocktails for your parent friends.