Sand is a wonder medium for integrating in all types of therapies and activities. There are even providers now that specialize in sand play therapy.
As children grow we provide lots of sensory exposure and play opportunities for their development. For those that have developed into older youth, teens and adulthood, people still can benefit immensely from sand… can you imagine that?
Those that struggle to express themselves or speak may express emotions through interactions using sand or objects incorporating sand. One might use a colored sand or mold something meaningful to express a thought or feeling. It’s possible a young child or adult that doesn’t know the best words to match an emotion or feeling might provide a special window into their heart of thoughts through finger tracing in a light sprinkle of sand. Maybe an individual went through a terrible traumatic experience and is uncomfortable expressing feelings with words but smashing a molded sand sculpture feels right and opens the door to healing.
Through freedom of expression in a sand box, large sand pool or lighted table top with thin sand sprinkle, an Individual can draw or use mini figures to play out an event or express a particular theme. This can all be extremely therapeutic and help someone who may not benefit from traditional talk therapy.
Another way to benefit from sand play is using it for sensory integration and building fine and gross motor skills. Placing a small amount of sand in a clear bag and squeezing or shaking it to find small hidden object often is a fun quiet game. There are many individuals that use sand much like a ball pit and seeks deep pressure by laying in it and maybe burying their hands or feet and wiggling free. Additionally, building fine motor skills occurs when manipulating mixed or wet sand to build something of interest. Gross motor skills can also be developed further by walking across a pathway of sand, maybe including stepping stones or walking barefoot. So many opportunities to level up to a new experience.
In conclusion, sand, like many natural things, is such a powerful tool to help an individual in many different areas. I suggest exploring it no matter what age or ability you are! You never know what benefit you will gain when trying.❤️
Tip:
Sanitation of play sand (not mixed sands):
50/50 ratio of water and white vinegar - spray regular sand lightly on the top layer and mix it all around evenly. Then, leave it to dry and use again.
Edible sand:
Crush graham crackers! Put a bunch in a food processor and pulse until all crumbled.
Put the crumbs in a container and play. Dispose of when finished playing.
Making Sand you can shape:
Remember the ratios of 5:3:1
5 parts of your base material (Sand; the smoother and more refined the better. You can find lots of colored craft sand at stores now)
3 parts cornstarch (this makes the material soft to touch and fun to play with)
1 part oil (vegetable or canola works great and this is your binding agent to be able to shape your sand)
You can use the ratio in any measuring tool! Scale the recipe to fit your needs. Use a measuring cup or a bucket and both should work just the same if you keep to the ratio listed here consistent.
Enhance your homemade moldable sand with essential oils: Add a few drops of lavender into the oil when making it. Remember “less is more” when adding fragrance.
