Planning a kid’s birthday party near you sounds like a blast, right? There’s nothing quite like watching kids splash around, laugh, and enjoy a sunny day by the pool. But let’s be real, keeping the party both fun and safe does take a little planning, especially when it comes to the safety of the little ones. 

Whether you’re an experienced party pro or hosting your first splash party, knowing the dos and don’ts can help you throw an unforgettable and stress-free party everyone will love. Read on.

What not to do at a pool party?

A pool party is all about fun, but a few missteps can turn things sour fast. To keep the good vibes flowing, here are some things you should definitely avoid, but also some things not to forget when hosting or attending a poolside bash:

DO: Prioritize safety

Safety should always be at the top of your list. Make sure there’s at least one adult who can confidently supervise the pool at all times. Ideally, this should be someone who knows how to swim well and is CPR-certified. If there are younger kids or non-swimmers attending, consider providing life jackets or floaties and keeping them in the shallow end. 

It’s also a smart idea to establish pool rules before anyone dives in. Keep it simple: no running near the pool, no roughhousing in the water, and always ask an adult before getting in. 

DON’T: Assume all kids are strong swimmers

Just because kids love water doesn’t mean they’re expert swimmers. Always ask parents about their child’s swimming ability before the party. If any children are inexperienced, make sure they’re closely monitored or kept in areas where they can comfortably stand. For added security, think about, think about color-coded wristbands to indicate swimming levels.

DO: Plan fun, pool-friendly activities

Classic games like “Marco Polo,” pool races, or a scavenger hunt with floating toys are always a good hit. For younger kids, simple activities like “dive and retrieve” with colorful pool toys can keep things fun and easy. You can also set up a dry play area. Not every kid wants to stay in the water the entire time. Poolside crafts, a bubble station, or even a simple picnic spot can give them a chance to recharge before diving back in.

DON’T: Forget the essentials

A pool party without essentials? Big mistake! Provide plenty of sunscreen and encourage kids (and adults) to reapply every couple of hours. It’s also important to keep everyone hydrated, so offer refreshing drinks like water, lemonade, or fruit-infused water to keep the partygoers cool and energized.

DO: Keep the food simple

Keep the snacks flowing. Finger foods like fruit skewers, mini sandwiches, and veggie cups are easy to grab between swims. Try to avoid heavy, greasy foods that can cause tummy trouble when combined with pool play. You can create a “snack shack” with refreshing treats like popsicles, frozen grapes, or an ice cream station.

DON’T: Overcomplicate things

It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but don’t forget that kids are happy with simple fun. You don’t need elaborate decorations or gourmet catering to host a fantastic pool party. Focus on safety, add fun activities, and you’ll have a winning celebration.

Where can I host an amazing kids pool party near me?

If you want to make sure you have everything you need for a blast of a party or you need help organizing one, Plunge San Diego is your place to go. With years of experience and a dedicated crew, we’re here to help you with everything from swimming classes to throwing amazing parties. Whether you’re near San Diego Bay or in another nearby area, you can count on us. Get in touch with us today!