If you are a pool owner, then you know well that there are essential pool toys that all families need in order to maximize their summertime fun. Here’s an overview of some of the basics.
Water Guns
Sure, you are surrounding by tons and tons of water, what’s the point of getting someone wet with a water gun? Simply: it is fun. The bigger and more colorful the gun, the better. You will find that the water gun will pull kids out of the pool and have them running around the whole yard in no time.
Balls
Every pool needs a few good balls. Kids love tossing them back and forth, trying to keep them from touching the water.
Floating chaise lounges
Who couldn’t use an afternoon floating in the pool underneath a hot sun. Floating chaise lounges make it possible for you to live the best of the tanning world and the swimming world. They are a great way to help you kick back and enjoy the scenery. Note: it is not a good idea to expect a relaxing afternoon of floating if the kids are playing with the said water guns or balls. You will inevitably have to join in the action.
Volleyball net
Nearly every pool owner that ever existed had a volleyball net to catalyze summertime fun. Use the volleyball net to create a playful game of volleyball with family or friends. Be careful about being the team on the deep-end side of the pool though – it gets hard to tread water for too long!
Spaghetti floaties
Every pool is complimented by a nice pair of spaghetti floaties. These are long Styrofoam cylinders that make a floating chair, battering ram and so much more. Kids love hanging out in the water attached to one of these toys, and adults love using them to support their weight as they float.
Banana clubs
Banana clubs are the lacrosse-esque clubs that are part of a popular latin American sport. Individuals can either toss a ball back and forth to one another using the clubs, or teams can play a game with a net like basketball or soccer. The goal of the game is to not touch the ground while tossing the ball back and forth across the pool. It’s tough – but it’s also great exercise!
Water balls
Water balls are cloth balls that fill with water when soaked in the pool. Kids love tossing them at each other because when the filled water ball makes contact with a hard surface, the water explodes of it – like a water bomb. They are not painful and are safe for kids of all ages.
Frisbee
Frisbee is a popular summertime game, both in the water and out of the water. If possible, look for a Styrofoam or cloth Frisbee that you can easily toss in the water and let float. The worst thing is to drop the Frisbee and let it sink.
Pick-up-sticks
Pick up sticks are great for younger children. A friend or adult tosses the sinking sticks into the pool. The kids have to swim after them and try to pick them up before they touch the bottom of the pool. Or kids can race to collect the most.