My two grandchildren immediately helped me assemble the play table and fill it with water and didn't  even need the sand to start playing. The umbrellais very good for shading the sun and also for carry around the yard to be a cover for our parades.  It is an item that moves with ease from the garage: on a rainy day, to the yard: on a sunny day and having the hose handy also--water fun.  The table is sturdy and strong as my grandson and his sister got right in and sat to play.  He's 40lbs and she is 30lbs. Now I know you don't recommend children in the play table but thought you should know that it stood up to their test!! Oh, the cover closes really well and keeps out unwanted critters.