I don't understand mother's that don't want their children to get dirty.  Being a kid means getting DIRTY!!  It's O.K. to play in the sand,  Outdoor play teaches children a variety of things.  First and most important is that they get much needed exercise.  We are worried about childhood obesity but we don't want our children getting dirty.  They need to to run, climb and play outdoors.  Playing outside allows them to learn to socailize with other children.  It teaches them to share and how to take turns.  Also they get the much needed vitamin D from the sun.  Let your child have fun outdoors.  Le them make mud pies and even play in the rain.  Next time your child comes home with sand in their hair and on their clothes know thta they are having fun and benefiting from playting outside.  Unti next time...