Water play is one of the most exciting and refreshing ways for young children to beat the summer heat. Whether it’s splashing in a water table, running through sprinklers, or enjoying a small pool, water activities offer endless fun while promoting sensory exploration and physical activity. However, with all the enjoyment that water play brings, it’s essential to keep safety in mind.
At Hyde Park Play School, we prioritize the well-being of every child, and that includes taking precautions to ensure water play is both fun and safe. Here are some essential tips for parents and educators to keep in mind when supervising water play activities.
1. Supervise, Supervise, Supervise
First and foremost, constant supervision is the number one rule for water play safety. Children can quickly find themselves in situations where they are in over their heads, even in shallow water. Whether children are playing in a small pool, water table, or sprinkler area, an adult should always be nearby to monitor their activities. Active supervision means keeping your eyes on the kids at all times, even if they are just playing in a shallow puddle. Never leave children unattended near water, no matter how small the body of water is.
2. Ensure Safe Water Depth
When setting up water play activities, it’s crucial to consider the depth of the water. For small pools or water tables, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for water levels and avoid overfilling. Shallow water is best for young children, as it allows them to enjoy the activity without the risk of accidental submersion. If you’re using a larger pool, make sure it’s specifically designed for younger children, with appropriate sidewalls to prevent tipping and accidental falls.
3. Check Water Temperature
Before allowing children to dive in, make sure the water temperature is comfortable. Water that is too cold can cause discomfort and even lead to hypothermia, while water that is too hot can lead to burns or overheating. To ensure water is at a safe temperature, dip your hand in before the children enter, or use a thermometer designed for water. For outdoor water activities, the ideal water temperature is typically between 70-85°F. If the water is too hot or too cold, wait for it to adjust before allowing children to play.
4. Keep Water Clean
Clean water is vital for safe water play. Contaminated water can lead to a variety of health issues, from skin rashes to infections. Make sure that any water used in water tables or small pools is fresh and clean. If you’re using a pool, change the water regularly to prevent bacteria buildup, and consider using a pool cover to keep debris out when the pool is not in use. For water tables, empty the water at the end of each day and refill it with fresh water before the next play session.
5. Be Mindful of Slips and Falls
Slippery surfaces are a major concern when it comes to water play. The area around water tables, sprinklers, or pools can become very slippery, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. To prevent accidents, place non-slip mats or rugs around the water play area. Encourage children to wear water shoes with non-slip soles to help prevent slipping. If possible, set up water play activities on grass or soft surfaces rather than hard, paved areas.
6. Use Sunscreen and Protective Gear
Spending time outdoors in the summer sun can lead to sunburns if proper precautions aren’t taken. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can cause harm to young skin. To protect children during water play, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply every two hours, especially after water play, as water can wash away sunscreen. In addition to sunscreen, consider using hats, UV-protective clothing, and sunglasses to protect against the sun’s harmful rays. Also, try to limit water play during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
7. Teach Water Safety from an Early Age
It’s never too early to start teaching kids about water safety. At Hyde Park Play School, we integrate water safety education into our summer curriculum. Even in the shallowest water, children should be taught basic water safety rules, such as never running around water play areas, keeping their faces out of the water, and understanding that water should always be treated with respect. Additionally, children should be encouraged to wait their turn and follow any guidelines set by the teacher or parent to ensure everyone stays safe.
8. Keep the Water Play Area Free of Hazards
Before starting any water play activity, take a moment to inspect the area for potential hazards. Remove any sharp objects, debris, or toys that could pose a choking hazard. Make sure that all water play equipment, such as hoses or sprinklers, is in good condition and free of damage. If you are using a small pool, check that the pool is properly inflated and there are no holes or leaks.
9. Have a Plan for Emergencies
While we hope for every water play session to go smoothly, it’s essential to be prepared for emergencies. Have a first aid kit on hand and make sure that at least one adult knows basic first aid and CPR. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures for your location and keep the phone nearby in case you need to call for help. Knowing how to act quickly and calmly can make all the difference in a critical situation.
Conclusion
Water play is an enriching and fun way for children to engage with the outdoors, but it must always be approached with safety in mind. By supervising children at all times, ensuring the water is safe, keeping the play area clean, and teaching water safety early on, parents and educators can provide a safe and enjoyable water play experience. At Hyde Park Play School, we are committed to creating a safe environment where children can cool off, get active, and have fun while making lasting summer memories. Let’s keep kids safe, protected, and splashing away in the sun!