I know there are a few companies that make sand without silica or small pebbles (which are typically found in hardware store "play sand.") These include Sandtastik and SafeSand. Kinetic sand is also a great option for indoor sand tables, as it molds well, and wipes off much easier. All of these would be more expensive than regular play sand, but if you're just using them for an indoor sensory table, it might be worth it.
I looked through the OKDFS guidelines and didn't see anything about food in sensory tables, but I'm not familiar with Oklahoma guidelines, so that may not mean much. :)
My understanding is that NAEYC requires providing varying sensory opportunities for children - not that sand, specifically, is a requirement.
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Lydia M. Bowers
NAEYC Affiliate Advisory Council
Cincinnati, Ohio
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Original Message:
Sent: 05-17-2017 06:02 PM
From: Laura Johnston
Subject: Sand play for 1 year olds
I can't find any thing about sand play for 1 year olds in NAEYC requirements. I do know, that I can't find sand age appropriate for an inside sensory table and in the state of Oklahoma, you can not use food like noodles, beans etc., in a sensory bin. Does anybody know if 1 year olds are required to play with sand, and if so what kind of sand.
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Laura Johnston
Quapaw Tribe
Quapaw OK
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