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Sand will not do the same job as Grit.
There are two types of grit, "soluble" and "insoluble" .
Insoluble - is usually Gran I grit brand and is granite bits, used by chickens to "grind" up feed, grasses, and grains in the gizzard. This is important to help avoid the sour crop we read so much about. Its especially important if you feed household scraps. It eventually passes through the system and is eliminated with the rest of the waste aka poop.
Soluble - grit is usually an Oyster shell type grit given to promote calcium in your hens and assist in the formation of the egg shell. It dissolves and goes into the system of the bird.
Chickens will eat grit as they need to. There is chick size grit you can use if you think you need to and probably should if your giving them bits of lettuce or other greens. I usually just sprinkle it on the floor of the brooder. Greens however is a treat and not necessary to feed them. They will do fine without treats. I haven't given my chicks greens since the first batch, because I'd rather not deal with it.
Both other types of grit should be available on demand for older birds. I keep two tubs, feeders or whatever you choose to use in the coop and run. You don't want to place "soluble" grit out in the open cuz the rain will just wash it away. A covered area is best and to keep it dry.
Insoluble grit comes in different sizes here, layer, starter and grower. Chickens will decide what size is best. They won't try to swallow a boulder.
Even in a free range situation I think it's best to offer grit. It's better to not risk sour crop than to have to deal with it. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Hope all is well,
Rancher
