Pool games and activities for kids
With summer fast approaching, it’s time to make sure you have plenty of options open to you for the quality pool time that summer brings.
Kids are pretty good at keeping themselves entertained at the pool, but eventually boredom sets in and you’ll need a few tricks up your sleeve to keep them interested and having fun.
There are lots of pool toys you can purchase that are affordable and good value for money, though there are plenty of pool games and activities for kids that won’t cost you a thing.
Which is the best pool activity for kids?
The best pool game for kids is one they enjoy but one that’s also safe. This is particularly important if you’re dealing with a group of kids of various ages and swimming abilities.
Before you begin a game or provide equipment, make sure it’s appropriate for the age and swimming level of all kids.
If you’ve purchased a pool game that involves floaties or other equipment, check the age guidance before use. Ensure all children who need them are wearing arm floaties and make sure an adult is present at all times to supervise.
It’s also good to have a variety of games and activities at the ready. That way, if the kids get bored with one game, you can quickly switch to another.
Pool activities for kids
Play jump in
Jumping in is not only fun, but it’s free. Your first step is making sure the water is at a safe depth. Next, decide the format. Is it a competition with grown-ups as the judge, or is it just for fun?
Then, run your program starting with the cannonball, the dolphin, the dive and the starfish jump. This game is not only great fun but great for learning new swimming skills too.
Host the sub-aqua Olympics
First things first, all athletes need to be able to hold their breath. Second, a parent must supervise the athletes at all times. Finally, the kid’s job is to pull as many fantastic shapes underwater as they can. Some ideas include water rolls, handstands and even underwater somersaults.
Bring the NBA to your pool
The Swimming Pool Basketball Hoop Set by Hoop Shark allows the full family to become aqua NBA stars for the day. This game can be played in or out of the water and can be deflated, stored and used again year after year. Why not have the kids invite their friends over and watch as they compete for the water-based NBA championship?
Inflatable pool toys
There are a ton of inflatable toys and games you can provide for some fun pool time. Kids are great at using their imaginations and finding their own ways to have fun, so something as simple as an inflatable pool ring can provide hours of entertainment.
If you’re looking for more affordable options, you can try something like the Greenco Inflatable Water Wheel. For a more interactive experience for multiple children, a floating pool combat set is a great way for older kids to blow off steam. If your kids are into animals, you can add themed or animal-shaped toys like a killer whale floatie to the pool.
Pool volleyball
One of the best things about getting the kids into the pool during the summer is that it provides a way for them to get some healthy exercise as well as having fun.
Setting up different sports and games in the pool ensures the kids don’t get bored or end up sitting around for the whole day. For example, you can add a volleyball net and a ball to the pool and have a family tournament for the day.
Play pool snorkeling
Pool snorkeling is a great way to teach children to breathe and be comfortable underwater. Starting slowly with the right snorkel is the best way to begin. Next, gently encourage putting the head underwater and swimming or floating while properly breathing through the snorkel.
Since the kids will be learning a new skill as well as playing, this is sure to hold their attention for a while.
Play Marco Polo
Marco Polo is one of the oldest and most enduring kids’ games around for a reason. It’s lots of fun and can get pretty competitive.
To play the game, place a blindfold on one person in the water. This player calls out “Marco.” All other players have to respond with “Polo.” The goal is for the blindfold wearer to try and catch the others using the sounds of their voices to guide them.
Add in some splashing water to up the ante and you’ve got a game that will keep them occupied.
Add a slide to the pool
No matter how big your kids are, there’s a suitable pool slide out there for all age groups. Slides are a great way to keep the fun and excitement going around the pool. For younger age groups, you can try an inflatable floating slide for babies and toddlers.
Bigger kids and grown-ups alike can enjoy larger slides that attach to the pool side, such as the Poolmaster Aqualaunch.
Quick jump quiz
This is perfect for older kids and is one game where the adults can all join in too. Everyone lines up at the side of the pool. The “quizmaster” asks each person a question just before they jump in. The jumper has to answer the question before they hit the water.
Whether you choose educational trivia questions or fun, silly questions, you and the kids will be having a blast.
Scavenger dive
If you want games that are also going to improve the kids’ swimming skills, this one is ideal. You can play it with any item that will sink to the bottom of the pool.
For example, you can toss a handful of coins into the pool and wait until they sink. Then all the players can dive and swim for the coins. The one to get the most coins wins the game.
Lauren Farrell is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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