Last night my wife and I attended a gift exchange party.  Each year I try to bring something unique and this year I brought Jurassic Play Sand.  There are several couples with young children so I thought it would be a hit and for some it was, but for most it was not.  The gift was opened and the recipient (who has a 3 yr old and 1.5 yr old) exclaimed “what is this, its just sand! For kids to play with, that’s ridiculous!”  Not letting on that I was the one responsible for bringing sand I read the description and expanded a bit, as to explain.  They still did not get it and after revealing who brought each gift several dumbfounded people asked me questions like “why is sand good for kids”.
It saddened me greatly to see such, well, ignorance about what children find extraordinary.  The first time a child interacts with Jurassic sand it is remarkable.  Kids loves it, understand it, and frankly, need more things like sand, dirt and other natural materials in their lives.  Unfortunately parents don’t understand that.
Once again I am reminded why all of you teachers out there are SO important!  You provide our children with opportunities to explore, learn and discover in ways parents will not.  You are incredibly important for children by presenting them with experiences they would otherwise never have.  Keep exploring new materials and offering new experiences, but also try, as difficult as it might be, to educate parents about why sand (among other materials) is so good for kids.