Toys Guide - Moon Sand from Spin Master

Moon Sand from Spin Master is essentially sand that can be used by kids to make stuff like models, figures, castles, or whatever the child likes.  The child's creation can then be oven baked to make it hard.  The unique and clever thing about Moon Sand is that once the child tires of any particular creation, it can be re-baked so the sand can be used again. 

In other words, since the sand doesn't dry out, the kids can use the same sand over and over again to make all kinds of models.  This helps reduce the possibility that children will get bored with the toy.  Moon Sand is sold with a carrying case and some accessories.  These include molds, tools, and a playmat.

In a way, Moon Sand is an update of another childhood staple, Play-Doh, in that it can be squished and squashed, thereby providing young children with a stimulating introduction to texture.  The manufacturers say that it doesn't stick or stain and that it cleans up easily.  It can apparently expand to twice its size.

One good thing about Moon Sand is that young children seem to be naturally attracted to sand anyway (hence the ubiquitous sand box).  Sand play can be performed alone (with adult supervision) by very young children not quite able to engage in cooperative play with others.  Slightly older children can also practice their social skills by working together to create their own imaginative sand castles.