Congrats, parents—you’ve made it to summer! With exciting plans ahead like water park trips, lake days, and pool parties at friends’ houses, keeping water safety top of mind is just as important as the fun itself. Every swim setting comes with its own risks, which is why ongoing conversations about water safety are key.
Whether it’s the unpredictable currents of the ocean, the crowded excitement of a water park, or the hidden drop-offs of a backyard pool, each environment presents different challenges. A quick safety talk can help your child recognize potential dangers before jumping in. Wondering how to talk to kids about water safety? Use these simple talking points to help your child make safer choices while having fun this summer.
Residential Pool Safety Tips for Kids
Neighborhood pools and backyard pools, whether at home or a friend’s house, are common places for children to swim. With 97% of pools in the U.S. being residential (Pool Research), most families have easy access to them. This means children are likely to attend summer pool parties with friends and family. While these gatherings are fun, they also require proper supervision and safety measures. Ensuring kids have strong swimming skills can help them stay safe and enjoy the water confidently, but even strong swimmers can benefit from regular reminders and supervised swim time. Before they dive in, make sure they understand the rules below. Key pool safety tips for children include:
- An adult should always be watching. “You and your friends need to wait for an adult before getting in the pool.”
- Identify who’s in charge. “If I’m not with you, who is the grown-up in charge?”
- Floaties are not life jackets. “If you’re using one, an adult still needs to be close by.”
- No running or rough play near the pool. “Slipping and falling in can be dangerous.”
- Look before you jump. “Make sure you aren’t jumping on someone or into shallow water.”
- Keep an eye on your friends. “If someone looks like they’re struggling, you should not try to save them. Get an adult right away.”
- Know where the exit is. “If you ever need to get out fast, where’s the ladder or steps?”
- In all bodies of water, be aware of the weather. “If you hear thunder, see lightning or rain, get out of the water immediately and tell an adult.”
Public Pool & Water Park Safety Tips for Kids
Water parks, splash pads, and community pools are exciting but can be overwhelming for young swimmers. Large swimming areas often have crowds, making it harder for children to stay close to their parents. Wave attractions add another challenge with constant movement and unexpected splashes. The sights and sounds of these water destinations can be overstimulating for little ones. Preparing children with swim lessons and water safety tips can help them feel more confident and comfortable. Before jumping in, remind your children to:
- Read all posted pool rules. “Rules keep us safe. Let’s review the rules together before swimming.”
- Know where your grown-up will be sitting. “If you need a break, come find me first.”
- Stay in your skill level zone. “Stick to areas meant for your age and swimming ability.”
- Locate the lifeguard. “They help keep everyone safe, but I’m the one watching you.”
- Watch for deep water. “Stay where you can safely touch the bottom. If you’re not sure how deep the water is, ask before jumping in.”
- Locate exits. “Where are the ladders or shallow steps to get out quickly?”
- Be aware of wave pools. “Wave pools don’t stop moving. Don’t go too deep and come back to the shallow end if you feel tired.”
- Be mindful of slippery surfaces. “Walking (not running!) will help you stay on your feet.”
Open Water Safety Tips for Lakes, Rivers & Oceans
These bodies of water include lakes, oceans, rivers, waterfalls, ponds, creeks, streams and more. Unlike a pool, open water is constantly moving, which can make swimming more challenging. Hidden drop-offs can catch swimmers off guard, increasing the risk of danger. The currents and waves require more energy to navigate, even for strong swimmers. Understanding these differences is essential for staying safe in natural bodies of water. Remind your child:
- Water moves fast! “Waves and currents can pull you away from Mom and Dad. Don’t go farther than waist-deep into the waves. If you do and need help, shout and wave your arms above your head to get our attention.”
- Always ask before getting in. “Open water is different than swimming in a pool, and you should never swim alone.”
- Respect sea creatures! “Be on the lookout for sea creatures like jellyfish, fish and birds and don’t go near them.”
- Life jackets help us float so we can find air. “You have to wear your life jacket when you’re beyond the shore or on a boat—even strong swimmers do! They help keep you from getting too tired.”
- If you feel tired, let an adult know right away. “Swimming in a lake or ocean takes more energy than a pool. There’s no pool edge to rest on here.”
- If someone is struggling, don’t jump in. “If you see someone struggling, don’t go in after them. The current is strong and it will put you in danger, too. Tell me right away, and we’ll find a lifeguard to help or a life preserver to throw to them!”
By teaching these, you can help keep your kids safe around water and set an example for others. Share these tips with your friends and family so you can make fun, lasting memories together all summer long! Whether you’re visiting the beach, splashing in the lake, or enjoying a day at the pool, a proactive approach to water safety can make all the difference. When families prioritize safety, parents gain peace of mind, and everyone can enjoy the water. A little awareness goes a long way, so keep the conversation going all season long!
