Paddling pool play for all ages
When you have multiple children of different ages, it can be tricky to find things to do that they will all enjoy. Something that is perfect for your baby might feel boring for your child, and something that your child loves could be something that your baby is not quite ready for.
On a hot day, it is always fun to get out the paddling pool. Once you have filled it with some water, you could sit and splash with your children, which is simple fun for all ages. As much fun as water play is, please ensure that your child or children – no matter what age – are always supervised by an adult.
Adding a few objects can enhance paddling pool play, and stop it becoming repetitive. Buckets are fun for filling and emptying, and babies will enjoy the sensory experience of water gently pouring over their arms and legs – maybe an older sibling could do this with them. Using buckets and containers, toddlers and older children may enjoy experimenting with volume and transferring water from one container to another.
A fun container to use is flower pots, which often provoke questions from older children about how the water falls out the bottom and could even start some problem-solving. Younger children and babies will enjoy watching the water move and feeling it sprinkle on their bodies.
Objects of different textures and properties are all fun in the paddling pool. Sponges of different shapes and sizes are enjoyable for little ones to squeeze and wave, and older children may have a go at using these in different ways.
Bubbles are another addition to paddling pool play. Older children may want to take the lead and blow some bubbles for their younger siblings to watch and try to pop and catch. You could even add bubbles to the water with a few squirts of washing up liquid to turn your paddling pool into a bath for dolls or car wash! Please ensure anything you add to the water is suitable for your child’s skin, bearing in mind any allergies they may have. Check that the surface of the paddling pool does not become slippery.
Exploring freezing and melting can also be enjoyed by children of all ages. For younger children and babies, adding a few ice cubes into the pool – or even their hands – can be a fun sensory experience. They may enjoy exploring ice with their hands, feet, mouth and lips. For older children, it’s interesting to watch and discuss the more scientific side of freezing, melting and varying temperatures.
Paddling pool water will keep for a few days if you look after it carefully. Using a cover over the pool when you are done not only saves water by keeping it protected and fresh, but makes sure that it is ready to be used as soon as possible the next day without waiting for it to fill, or using unnecessary water.