Splash Pad 101
In my neck of the woods, opening day for splash pads comes right after Memorial Day, and my kids are already chomping at the bit to get into the spray. Splash pads seem to be popping up right and left in our area, and I love having options for getting outside in the summer without fearing the heat. Splash pads offer a unique opportunity for water play that is safe, and in many cases free to the public.
While splash pads are usually free from standing water, and can be less of a drowning hazard than swimming pools, they’re not completely without risk. With any type of outdoor play there’s always the risk of bumps, bruises and scrapes (or is that just a five-year-old boy thing?), as well as a hefty dose sun exposure. Splash pads can make pretty quick work of spreading germs and illness if not properly treated. Keeping chemicals balanced in a splash pad can be a complicated task, especially since the chemical requirements can change based on the number of people using the splashpad, the temperature outside, precipitation, and the number of soggy diapers hanging around.
There are some practical precautions you and your family can take to make sure you’re not sacrificing fun due to worries about safety.
Take bathroom breaks on the regular. Yes, your children may tell you you’re the meanest mom ever but it’s a good practice to make sure they’re pausing to use the restroom every hour. And if you’ve got little ones rocking swim diapers, be on top of frequently checking whether it’s time for a change.
Don’t drink the water. The gross out factor is enough to keep most adults from putting splash pad water in their mouths, but sensitivity to gross things seems to be something that comes with age. Remind your little ones, or big ones who may be missing the gross-out response to refrain from swallowing the water.
While drinking the splash pad water is definite no go, drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated is a must! As refreshing as a splash in the water may be, it’s still important to stay hydrated when spending time in the sun.
Wear water shoes to give your feet some extra grip. Sometimes, no matter how many reminders you give, the urge to run wins out. Grippy water shoes can add a little bit of traction and prevent a slip and fall when the inevitable game of water tag gets going.
Be hands on! The best way to help keep kids safe at a splash pad is to keep a close eye on them. While a risk of drowning is significantly lower at a splash pad than a pool, it’s still there. Caregivers should be present and attentive any time kids are in or around water.
With your safety checks in place, you’re ready for an awesome day at the splash pad so slather on some sun screen and go have fun!