Any suggestions on getting the hens to lay in the nesting box?

[Phenix7d7d]

We made an egg!!! Woo hoo!

Isn't it adorable!!! Our first egg!

However, the hen dropped in in the sand box (where they take a dust bath).
Any suggestions on getting them to use the nesting box?

The box is a nice cozy size, with comfy bedding, and two of those fake eggs inside. I'm open to any and all suggestions.

Thanks & God bless you all!!!

Warmly, Laurence & Teresa

 

[SueT]

Well, being a first egg, it might have come unexpectedly. Are they trying out the nest box?

 

[TwoCrows]

Congrats on that first egg!! New layers sometimes don't know they have to lay and don't always know where to lay them. I keep fake ceramic eggs in my nest boxes, it really helps teach them where to lay and keeps them coming back for more.

 

[aart]

Mostly it's just about giving them time.
Pics of your nests might garner some suggestions.