OK, fine! So you won’t be wintering in the Bahamas this year (sigh). But your kids can still play in the sand all month long at Littleton’s latest indoor playspace. With 40 tons of sand packed into an 825-square-foot box, there’s plenty to dig up at Kids Dig.
Designed by two grandparents—owners Garry and Dianne Wolff—this “dig site” was modeled on a real-life sand quarry, with natural boulders, metal wainscoting, and enlarged photos of construction trucks hung along with a mural of the sky with clouds. You’ll even find toy hard hats at the front desk for kids who are really digging the theme.
The best thing about sand is its endless possibilities. As long as they’re following the safety guidelines posted near the box, little “construction workers” can manipulate their environment any way they please, using dozens of classic Tonka brand toys: dump trucks, bulldozers, and diggers galore. By encouraging kids to interact with toys and mediums (such as sand) that don’t have a specific purpose, you encourage the type of exploration that challenges young minds to think and/or solve problems creatively—paving the way for some serious brain development.
During peak hours, participants might dig up a few new friends, as they collaborate with other children, sharing tools and working together toward a common goal. It’s these interactions that help children learn important social skills, including problem solving and teamwork.
For health reasons, the sandbox is only available to children who are fully potty trained. Guests who aren’t potty trained can explore a small toddler area while older siblings get sandy. There’s also a flat-screen TV showing kids programs and real construction footage.
While children play, parents are encouraged to relax at picnic tables alongside the sandbox. These tables would be great for a lunch playdate with friends; from Sprouts to McDonalds, there are several nearby food options, and customers are welcome to bring in food and beverages to enjoy outside of the sandbox. Working parents might even be able to squeeze in a little business while their kids play—there’s free Wi-Fi, and a charging station under the TV.
- Check it Out:
- 8601 W. Cross Dr., Unit B6-1, Littleton
- Need to Know:
- Open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Age 10 and under.
- Pricing:
- $9 for one hour, $16 for two hours; packages will be available soon
- Insider Secret:
- You’ll have to complete and e-sign a waiver prior to your child’s first dig session. Save time at the door by filling out the waiver online in advance.
