Sand a fun part of beach outing

A family day at the beach is usually more about sand than surf -- at least that's how I feel when we get home and unpack a minibeach that has accumulated in cuffs, pockets, snorkels, fins, ears and bellybuttons. But it's worth all the fuss when you consider the joy of playing with one of the cheapest and most tactile art materials known to kids throughout the ages.

Sometimes there's something new under the sun. Here's what I discovered at the beach this summer.

Getting there

A family of four hauled their beach gear in a plastic winter sled. It easily slid over the sand as they pulled it to their spot for the day. When emptied, it became a nifty picnic table at lunch and a shallow tub in which their preschooler enjoyed afternoon water play.

Sand portraits

Some beaches aren't suitable for castle construction. Instead, make a portrait of someone or of an imaginary sea creature. Draw an outline of the head in the sand with a stick. Then, using natural items you have collected, add the details. Drape and "style" seaweed for a fancy hairdo or craggy beard. Use rocks, shells, driftwood, etc., for features and details. Be sure to take a photo souvenir before the tide washes it away.

Shifting sand ABCs

You don't have to go to a beach to enjoy playing with sand.

Find a large cookie sheet with a rim around all four sides. Pour a thin layer of clean sand in the pan to cover the bottom completely. Using an index finger as a paintbrush or pen, your child can drag through the sand and see his pictures, alphabet letters or doodles revealed on the metal cookie sheet. When it's time to start over, shake the pan slightly from side to side to level the sand and make the drawings disappear.

When not in use, older children and Mom and Dad can leave word messages for one another in the sand. For the nonreaders, a simple heart outline will do.

Write Donna with your questions and ideas at www.donnasday.com. Donna's latest book, "Donna Erickson's Fabulous Funstuff for Families," is available in bookstores nationwide. ? Donna Erickson Dist. by King Features Syndicate

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