Kinetic sand is play sand that is soft and crumbly, but also holds its shape when squeezed or pressed. And with only three ingredients, this DIY activity couldn't be easier to make. Whether you need enough kinetic sand for one child or a large group, it's easy to make as much or little as you need.

Store-bought Kinetic Sand is made from fine sand and polydimethylsiloxane (also called dimethicone). It's an unusual substance in that its viscosity increases under stress. You can form it into fun shapes and slice it. However, it's not the cheapest thing to buy.

This black mineral is composed of iron oxide, so magnets are able to pick it up. Because magnetite is also very heavy, when the wind blows, the lighter weight sand is blown away, leaving magnetite behind in patches. These black patches can be seen in the dunefield from a distance.

Kinetic sand is a fun sensory toy. It is made of 98% ultra-fine grain sand combined with 2% dimethicone (polydimethylsiloxane).

Kinetic sand is particularly beneficial in supporting physical development such as fine motor skills. Social and emotional development can be supported by engaging with the kinetic sand as children may find it calming and relaxing. Kinetic sand provides a range of sensory experiences for children.

Being “kinetic” the sand sticks to itself! Not only is easy to clean up and perfect for play indoors, but it's also gluten free and non-toxic if kids decide to put it in their mouth. This is true for both kids and adults.

Kinetic sand is particularly beneficial in supporting physical development such as fine motor skills. Social and emotional development can be supported by engaging with the kinetic sand as children may find it calming and relaxing. Kinetic sand provides a range of sensory experiences for children.

Kinetic means “togetherness due to movement and energy” and is used to describe Kinetic Sand because, unlike the sand at the beach, Kinetic Sand sticks together when force is applied to it. When a liquid is added to cornstarch it starts to become thicker, similar to how sand becomes heavier with water at the beach.

Kinetic means “togetherness due to movement and energy” and is used to describe Kinetic Sand because, unlike the sand at the beach, Kinetic Sand sticks together when force is applied to it. When a liquid is added to cornstarch it starts to become thicker, similar to how sand becomes heavier with water at the beach.

As a non-Newtonian fluid, Kinetic Sand acts like a viscous liquid, but also like an elastic solid. This is because the molecular structure of polydimethylsiloxane is held together by hydrogen bonds, a few of which can be easily broken when small amounts of stress are applied, allowing the sand to flow freely.

To produce magic sand, companies start with standard sand, silicon dioxide, and then add a very thin layer of a chemical called trimethylhydroxysilane. This coating makes the sand hydrophobic, or water-repellent. That's in contrast to standard beach sand, which is hydrophilic, or water-loving.

It's versatile and affordable whilst also being strong and durable. Sand is used to make concrete, mortars, and plasters and can also be used for filing purposes – whether that be for walls or basements.

Kinetic Sand looks like regular wet sand but is available in different colors. It can be molded into any desired shape. It is 98% ultra-fine grain sand mixed with 2% dimethicone (polydimethylsiloxane), and coated with olive oil. Because of its oil coating, the sand never dries out.