For many families, pool toys are a must-have for summer fun, keeping kids entertained for hours. But they can pose a serious risk if not used properly. Here’s what every parent and caregiver needs to know to keep pool time safe and stress-free.

Safe Play

The No. 1 rule to remember with pool toys is that they are not safety devices. Never use pool toys in place of life jackets. Toys are designed for fun and play only.

Water wings, for example, can easily slip off or deflate, according to the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA). Likewise, inflatable rafts and rings are just for fun, since they can often flip over. Noodles are great for games, but they can’t be relied on as life-saving devices.

Above all else, supervise children at all times when they are in and around water.

Teach children how to use their pool toys, and make sure they understand that pool toys aren’t designed for safety. Monitor them to be sure that they are using toys appropriately.

Guide your children to follow pool rules. Discourage pushing, shoving or other rough behavior that could lead to accidents.

And when you aren’t using the pool, remove toys from the water and store them out of sight. Otherwise, toys might entice kids into the pool when there isn’t adequate adult supervision.

Appropriate Pool Toys

According to the American Society for the Positive Care of Children (American SPCC), it’s important to choose the right pool toys for your child. Carefully select toys based on the manufacturer’s age, height and weight recommendations. SPCC offers the following guidelines for pool toys for the youngest children.

• Infants and Young Toddlers: Choose soft, easy-to-grasp floating toys such as rubber duckies or lightweight squirt toys. Avoid toys with small openings that can trap water and lead to mold growth.

• Older Toddlers: Opt for floating rings, larger boats and interactive toys with simple, engaging features. Toys that encourage sensory play – such as water-safe stacking rings or floatable activity sets – are especially good for older toddlers.

Before using pool toys, the NDPA recommends checking each toy for leaks, tears or other damage that could compromise safety.

For more information on pool toy safety, visit NDPA Do’s and Don’ts of Pool Toys and the American SPCC page on selecting pool toys for your child.

Sources:
American Society for the Positive Care of Children
National Drowning Prevention Alliance