How to Make a Water Play Area for Children at Home

• 1). Convert an outside sandbox or sandy area into a natural spot for water play. Provide trowels and shovels for digging, a hose to fill the holes or canals, and small boats or materials to make boats. (At the end, use the hose to wash off the kids!) This kind of backyard water area provides hours of creativity---it's almost as much fun as being at the beach.
  
  
• 2). Buy a water table---you can find small ones with water wheels and larger ones similar to those at preschools. Most of them are light enough to carry indoors and out as necessary. If your children tire of water play, these tables can be filled with sand for a different kind of experience. (See Resources below.)
  
  
• 3). If your budget or living area doesn't allow for a water table and water toys, create a water play area in your kitchen sink or in a bathtub. Fill a plastic tub with nonbreakable household "toys," such as measuring cups and spoons, plastic drinking glasses, sieves and sponges. Children can enjoy water play in any size space.