How to Use Water in Sand Castle Building

Building a sand castle is a fun summertime activity that children and adults of all ages can enjoy. You can use water in sand castle building to create a stunning work of art and you don't even need to live near a beach to enjoy sand castle building. Simply fill a plastic kiddie pool with sand and get started on your next masterpiece.

Things You'll Need

• Sand
• Buckets
• Plastic shovels

Instructions

1. Pick a spot to build your sand castle. You'll find drier sand the further you are away from the ocean. Stay away from high traffic areas where beach goers are playing volleyball or other physically active games.

2. Check high tide and low tide predictions on the local weather forecast. Build your sand castle closer to the water if a low tide is predicted and you enjoy watching a sand castle being demolished.

3. Dig a ditch about 4 inches deep at least 6 inches away from your sand castle. Fill this area in with water to create a moat around your castle.

4. Add a small amount of water to the sand as you pack it into your bucket. The water helps the sand grains stick together so your sand castle won't crumble once you remove your overturned bucket.

5. Use a spray bottle and spritz water lightly on your finished sand castle to harden it in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a sandbox in your back yard to build a sand castle if you don't live near a beach or ocean.

• Be careful when digging into the sand so you don't get cut on seashell bits or other sharp objects.

• Supervise children closely so everyone stays safe. Instruct children not to throw sand and monitor very small children who have a tendency to put sand in their mouths.