Best Ever Sand for Sand Tray Therapy

Cathi Spooner Author

In today’s episode, we dive deep into the importance of using high-quality sand for sand tray therapy. I invited Mary and John from Jurassic Sand to discuss why their sand stands out—particularly its low dust properties, natural textures, and therapeutic benefits for sand tray therapy.

Key Takeaways:

1. Jurassic Sand’s Unique Qualities
   Jurassic Sand is a natural, wind-blown desert sand with rounded and smooth grains due to its geological formation. Unlike crushed rock sand found in home improvement stores, which tends to be dusty and harsh, Jurassic Sand is softer and smoother.
2. Natural and No-Dust Composition
   The sand grains are naturally shaped and polished by the wind, making them less prone to creating dust during use. This is particularly important in sand tray therapy, where children and therapists handle sand frequently, making dusty sand a nuisance and even a health concern.
3. Textural Variety
   Jurassic Sand offers a range of textures and colors—each suited for different therapeutic uses. For example:
   • Finer sands (like the original Jurassic sand) offer a smoother, soothing experience.
   • Coarser sands (such as garnet sand) provide a more tactile and grounding feel, which can be helpful for children who prefer rougher textures.
   • The variety in textures allows for different sensory experiences, making it versatile for various therapeutic needs.
4. Cleaning and Maintaining Sand
   The sand from Jurassic Sand is easy to clean and maintain. Options for cleaning include:
   • Screening the sand for debris.
   • Spraying a solution of 9 parts water and 1 part bleach to sanitize the sand.
   • Sterilizing the sand by baking it in the oven at 200°F for 4 hours.
5. Sensory Preferences in Sand Therapy
   Some children, especially those with sensory processing issues, might prefer specific textures or the feel of sand. Jurassic Sand offers a variety of sands like "knot sand" (made from corn cobs), which is lighter and easier to manage for mobile therapists and useful for clients with sensory sensitivities.

Why It Matters for Sand Tray Therapy

Therapists often find that natural sand has a grounding, calming effect on clients. Because sand is a tactile medium, using high-quality, dust-free sand helps avoid distractions and enhances the therapeutic process. Furthermore, offering a range of sand textures can support clients in self-soothing during sessions, enabling deeper emotional exploration.

Jurassic Sand not only offers a superior physical experience but also aligns with the natural, grounding objectives that are central to sand tray therapy. Its variety in textures and lack of dust make it a preferred choice among therapists who prioritize both the physical and emotional comfort of their clients.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re new to sand tray therapy or have been using it for years, investing in quality sand like that from Jurassic Sand can significantly impact the experience for both therapist and client. If you’re struggling with dusty, cheap sand or looking to expand your collection with unique textures, Jurassic Sand is definitely worth considering.

For more information about Jurassic Sand, including their product range, visit their website here.

Categories: : Play Therapy, Podcast, Sand Tray Therapy