Giant Sandbox

Today was another rainy day in Seattle and I woke up unsure of what I was going to do with the kids, but I knew it would involve leaving the house.  I decided to check out Parent Map to see if anything interesting was happening. And then I found it, perhaps one of the most genius business ideas ever--a giant indoor sandbox!

I normally loathe sand play--the mess, the dirt, wondering how many cats have visited, the questionable sand toys left behind.  Linus of course loves playing in the sand.  At least once a week he asks why the big wave had to come and take away his bucket and shovel (see Seabrook post in September).  Despite my reservations, especially about Eileen just eating sand, I decided that this activity warranted a trip to a part of Seattle we never venture to, Georgetown.  So off we headed to Lil' Diggers at Sandbox Sports. 

I swear this isn't a paid advertisement, but I have to admit I was impressed.

1. Very clean sand with the perfect amount of moisture for play.
2. Lots and lots of nice sand toys (nothing broken or dirty).
3. Cubbies for shoes and bags.
4. Lots of chairs for sitting.
5. Diaper changing table close to main area.
6. On Wednesdays, an LMP is there to offer chair massages while your kids play.
7. Enclosed play area is HUGE.  No one got in anyone else's space.
8. Sand brushes right off so you don't bring the beach home (although Eileen did manage to get quite a bit in her diaper somehow).
9. There are refreshments but I didn't take a close look.
10. Very nice, friendly welcoming owner.

My only criticism is that at $6 per kid, the cost could add up.  It would be better if they had a family rate as well.

The kids had a good time.

Overwhelmed at first by all the sand.

Eileen was on the move the entire time, rarely stopping except for trips to the slide.

taking a deep breath before going down the slide

Eileen liked going off by herself to the vacant part of the sandbox.

Only a little sand was eaten, although there were tears when sand got in the eyes (a hazard of rubbing your eyes after playing in sand).  The kids played hard for over an hour before heading home for a bath, lunch, and long naps.  Linus thanked me multiple times for taking him to the indoor sandbox.  It was a really fun morning.  We'll definitely go again, but I'll have to get another mom friend to go with me so we can take turns watching the kids and take advantage of the masseuse. 

The owner mentioned they have an adult skill class on Wednesday nights.  I am intrigued.  He promised it was fun and that he didn't allow jerks--something you run into a lot with adult rec play.  My adult soccer team starts next week so I don't know if I can also fit volleyball in, but maybe it couldn't hurt to check it out....