PEABODY, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — It's being called the 'ultimate indoor sandbox experience' and it's now open to the public on the North Shore.
Sandmagination at the North Shore Mall in Peabody features an indoor sandbox play center for children aged 10 and under. Interactive exhibits, STEAM and STEM activities, and open-ended play areas that promote creativity, imagination, problem-solving, and hands-on learning are all part of the experience.
Co-founders Jason and Katarina, a married couple with kids, said they came up with the idea of Sandmagination after taking a trip to Ohio with their daughter where she enjoyed playing in an indoor sandbox.
They brought that idea back home with them, and Sandmagination has now been open for about a week.
So far, they said it's proven itself to be a big hit. "New England weather is so unpredictable that this type of space is really needed both in the winter and in the summer," Katarina said.
Safety is a priority.
The facility features 24/7 security camera monitoring, daily sand sanitization, HEPA-grade air purifiers, and strict protocols for spills or accidents.
Jason added they also take safety and comfort seriously with the design of the facility. "Our event room that was designed for birthdays and events is completely soundproof with its own volume control and lighting system," he said.
Meanwhile, the sand they use is from the Bahamas.
It stops bacteria and contains no sharp edges just in case it winds up in someone's eye.
And there is an eye-wash station at the facility.
No reservations are needed at Sandmagination.
People can drop by at their convenience.
But to book parties and group visits ahead of time, there is an online reservation system.
WBZ NewsRadio's Kyle Bray (@KyleBrayWBZ) reports.