Summer is here! School’s out, the sun is shining, and there’s so much fun to be had. But where to begin? Let’s check in with our aquatic friends, the Toddlewaddle Penguins!
The Toddlewaddles used to teach snowboarding on the frigid slopes of Antartica. Now, in Honeysuckle Hollow, they spend their days swimming under the sun! If you ask them, the best way to cool off is by diving into a refreshing body of water. Only one thing could be better: diving in with friends and family!
Here are 3 swimming pool games for kids that you should try this summer.
Each of these activities can be played in shallow water, where players can touch the ground and breathe comfortably. If you want to play in the deep end, players must have completed a swim test or wear a life jacket. Non-swimmers should always be within arm’s reach. Safety first!
1. Marco Polo
Make a splash with a classic game of Marco Polo. To play, everyone must be in the pool. Choose a swimmer who will be “it.” That player then closes their eyes and counts to 10 while spinning in a circle. When the count is up, that player can then shout “Marco,” and all the other players must respond with “Polo.” The player who shouts “Marco” has to catch another player while keeping their eyes closed the entire time. Whoever gets caught is the next person who is it!
2. Red Light, Green Light
Here’s a game that helps kids work on their swimming skills! Players start at one edge of the pool, while the leader stands or treads on the other side. When the leader says, “green light,” the players must swim forward to get to the leader’s side. Say “red light,” and the players stop. The winner is the one who reaches the other end of the pool first!
3. Bombs Away!
3, 2, 1… Bombs away! This jumping game is super high energy and loads of fun. Players stand along the edge of the pool, while a leader faces them in the water. When the leader shouts “bombs away,” the players must safely jump into the water. Then, they have 10 seconds to climb back out. Shout “bombs away” again, and the players will now have 9 seconds to climb back out. Those who can’t climb out in time are eliminated from the game
Careful – this game can get a little rowdy! Make sure that kiddos don’t spin around while jumping so they can grab the wall quicker. For added safety, you can have the swimmers jump over a pool noodle to lengthen the jumping distance.
Want to play more games in the pool? Try playing Simon Says, What Time is it Mr. Wolf, or a reverse game of tug-of-war by holding a pool float and kicking it back and forth! You can also get creative by playing pretend, like making imaginary pancakes to practice floats, or blowing out pretend birthday candles to practice blowing bubbles. Just use your imagination! For even more kids’ activities, check out our summer staycation ideas.
The Toddlewaddles agree that the key to a great day at the pool is to have fun. See you in the water!
Take your Woodzeez to camp!
Keep kids busy with happy n’ healthy activities, and bring that summer fun into the playroom with Li’l Woodzeez toys.
Sunshine Tiki Hut
Treat your Li’l Woodzeez to a beach day at the Sunshine Tiki Hut! This deluxe playset includes a surfboard, flippers, and goggles, as well as 2 adorable characters.
Scoops & Sprinkles Ice Cream Shop
Another great way to cool off is with a scoop or two of ice cream! This toy ice cream shop includes colorful, detailed play food – like a banana split – perfect for inspiring hours of imaginative play.
Happy Camper
Adventure is calling with the Happy Camper playset! Take Li’l Woodzeez figurines on summertime adventures with a toy camper van featuring furniture, play food, and accessories.
