Although you’re probably used to your children splashing in the bathtub and digging in a sandbox at the playground, you may be surprised to know that the sand and water area is an important part of our classroom. This is because sand and water aren’t just fun—they’re also a natural setting for learning.

When children pour water into measuring cups, they gain a foundation for mathematical thinking. When they drop corks, stones, feathers, and marbles into a tub of water, they observe scientifically which objects float and which sink. When they comb sand into patterns, they learn about both math and art.

We encourage children to experiment with these materials and as they do, we ask questions that encourage them to think about what they are discovering:

“Why do you think the wet sand won’t turn the wheel?”

“How did the water change when we added the soap flakes?”

“Does the sand feel different when it’s wet?”

“How many of these measuring cups of water will it take to fill this quart pitcher?”

Giving children an opportunity to play with sand and water on a regular basis helps them develop their minds and bodies in a relaxing and enjoyable way.

(Excerpts taken from The Creative Curriculum for Early Childhood, third edition, 1992.)

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