Not Always Bad, Letting Children Play In The Sand Has A Number Of Benefits

Illustration (Yan Krukov/Pexels)

JAKARTA - Children generally really like to play. However, many parents forbid their children to play in the sand. This is because playing with sand is considered a dirty activity. In fact, playing with sand can actually provide benefits for children's growth and development. Adapting BabySparks, Monday, June 6, here are four benefits of playing with sand for children's growth.

Develop motor skills

Playing with sand is great for developing motor skills, building hand-to-eye coordination, and strengthening muscles. The child trains his fine motor skills as he learns how to properly hold a shovel with both hands. Meanwhile, his gross motor skills were trained when he tried to lift a bucket filled with sand. Almost every movement that is important for his physical development is obtained by playing with sand.

Build creativity and imagination

There is a lot of creativity formed when playing with sand. You can invite children to build sand castles, moats, mountains, bridges, or any shape according to the child's imagination and creativity. You can change the texture of the sand by adding water. Your child can create their own little world in the sandbox. Provide tools or toys, such as cars, buckets, shovels, or animal toys to let your little one's imagination run wild.

Train focus

Your little one will usually be very focused on the toys, as well as when playing with the sand. When playing with sand, your little one begins to imagine with a focus on forming what he wants.

Boost immunity

It is natural for every parent to want their child to avoid dirty play. However, research shows that children who are used to playing outdoors such as on grass, sand, or soil have a better immune system than children who are constantly in a sterile room. Playing with sand can actually boost a child's immune system.