PLAY IN THE SAND DAY
Today is August 11 on the National Day Calendar and we are celebrating Play in the Sand Day to remind people to get outside, enjoy the sunshine, and create some fun in the sand.
#PLAYINTHESANDAY
Get ready to dig deep and sink your feet into Play in the Sand Day! Each year on August 11, we're heading outside to play on a beach, at a park, or in our backyard to enjoy the summer sunshine, while playing in the sand.
Playing in the sand is the perfect activity for anyone to release some creativity and have fun. Playing in sand is one of the simplest ways to relax and enjoy the summertime weather. This is one carefree activity that brings back happy childhood memories, while making new ones! Plus, it’s inexpensive and requires no special skills. It also offers several benefits for both children and adults.
5 Health Benefits of Playing in Sand
Stimulates senses. Touching sand and stimulates senses and enhances sensory development. The texture of the sand, the sound it makes when moved, and the feeling of it running through fingers heighten sensory nervous system. The sensation of playing the sand becomes very relaxing and can be therapeutic for some.
Promotes creativity and Imagination. Every time you play with sand, you start with a blank canvas of creativity and imagination. You never really know what you are going to build until you start building until you begin. The imagination of building sandcastles and sculptures promote creative critical thinking and planning skills.
Promotes physical exercise. Building sand structures and playing in the sand is a great way to get exercise. Whether you are sitting still or playing a beach game, your muscles are moving and stretching. In fact, you might be surprised to feel how many muscles you use after a day on the beach.
Boosts mental health. As you explore and play in the sand, your body becomes naturally relaxed. The sunshine and fresh air will boost your mood, which makes your day more enjoyable. You start to notice the natural beauty around you and a calmness takes over.
Promotes bonding. Playing in the sand is a great way to spend time with family and friends. Whether you are building something out of sand, playing a game, or simply looking at the texture of sand, you are sharing time together and making memories.
Did You Know?
A Sand Hopper, or Sand Flea, is a small crustacean found on beaches. They are about 2 millimeters in size and blend in with the color of sand, making them hard to see. Sand Fleas are harmless to humans, but have been known to bite animals, such as dogs.
5 Sand Sports You Should Know
Sand sports are a great way to enjoy the beach and get exercise at the same time. The sports promote socialization and comradery among players and spectators. Even though many sand sport athletes are physically fit, sand sports are for anyone and everyone.
Beach volleyball is similar to indoor volleyball, except the game is played on a sandy court. Beach volleyball is a very common sport found on beaches worldwide.
Sandboarding is a skilled sport similar to snowboarding and is normally performed in regions with beaches and desserts that have large sand dunes.
Ultimate frisbee is a physically demanding game played in the sand. Players run, jump, and dive with immense physicals strength. This game requires skill and a lot of practice.
Beach athletics is very similar to a track meet with events in sprinting, long jump, and discus throwing.
Sand sculpting is not necessarily a sport. However, in recent years, this activity has become a world wide event where participants showcase sand sculpting skills in tournaments.
CELEBRATIONS FOR PLAYING IN THE SAND DAY
Celebrating Playing in the Sand Day is all about enjoying a day outdoors and making lasting memories with family and friends.
Host a beach day outing and invite as many people as you can. Make the outing a potluck and spend the day building sand sculptures and playing games. Don't forget to hydrate during the day and pick your trash up when it's time to go home!
Have a sand sport tournament with family and friends. Play soccer, volleyball, or even a game of football.
If your beach location allows it, have a beach bonfire. Tell stories, roast marshmallows, look at the stars, and listen to the sound so of the waves coming in as you enjoy the sunset.
Plan a treasure hunt with your kids in a sandy area. Hide little trinkets and prizes for them to find and keep!
Share photos and videos about your day in the sand on social media tagging #PlayInTheSandDay to inspire others to play in the sand, too!
Who created Play in the Sand Day?
We are uncertain who the creator of Play in the Sand Day is. However, we think it may be a group of adults looking for an excuse to get out of work today. It's also possible a group of 10 year old's thought of the day as a way to get their parents to take them to the beach. We will never know.