There is something magical about spending a summer afternoon by the pool. The kids are laughing, cannonballs are flying, popsicles are melting faster than anyone can eat them, and for a few hours, life feels wonderfully simple.
Of course, every parent or grandparent knows that a great pool day doesn’t happen by accident. Forget the sunscreen, snacks, or an extra change of clothes, and what should be a carefree afternoon can quickly turn into a series of little emergencies. I should know, I’m a Nana, and I’ve got the pool.
For those of you who are newer to this, let me say that a little preparation goes a long way. These seven simple tips will help everyone stay comfortable, safe, and ready to enjoy every splash.
1. Choose Clothes That Keep Kids Cool
The right clothing makes a surprising difference on hot summer days. Lightweight cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics help keep kids comfortable by allowing heat and sweat to escape, while lighter colors reflect the sun instead of absorbing it.
For time spent out of the water, long-sleeve rash guards offer extra sun protection without making kids feel overheated. A wide-brimmed hat is another smart addition for protecting little faces, ears, and necks during snack breaks or walks around the pool (although I find myself putting it back on every time my grandson pulls it off).
Don’t forget to pack a dry outfit for the trip home. Nobody enjoys sitting in a wet swimsuit during the ride back.
2. Pick Footwear Made for Pool Days
Pool decks can be slippery, hot, and uncomfortable on bare feet. Instead of sneakers that stay soggy all afternoon, choose cute children’s slide sandals that are easy to slip on and off as kids move between the water, the chairs, the kitchen, and the bathroom.
Slides dry quickly, rinse clean with a little water, and provide plenty of ventilation on hot days. Younger children often do best with styles that include a secure back strap to help keep their sandals in place while they’re running and playing. Comfortable options from Zubii Kids are designed specifically with active little swimmers in mind.
3. If You’re Going to a Community Pool, Get There Before the Crowds
If your schedule allows, arriving early is one of the easiest ways to start your day on the right foot.
Morning hours are usually cooler, making it more comfortable for children to play both in and out of the water. You’ll also have a much better chance of claiming a shady spot before the afternoon rush begins, and the pool is often quieter, giving kids more room to swim and play.
It also helps you avoid the strongest midday sun.
4. Create a Relaxation Station
Rather than scattering towels and bags everywhere, designate one central area as your family’s home base.
Keep sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, towels, extra clothes, and anything else you’ll need together in one shaded location. An umbrella, pop-up canopy, or even a tree can provide welcome relief from the heat and give everyone a comfortable place to recharge between swimming sessions. I have an umbrella by the pool and a covered porch escape with an overhead fan to cool down quickly.
Having everything in one place also means fewer frantic searches for goggles, sunglasses, or that one missing flip-flop that’s hidden behind a tree in the yard or in the middle of that blow-up ring that’s still floating in the pool.
5. Have Plenty to Drink and Snack On
Hours in the pool can leave kids surprisingly tired and dehydrated, even if they don’t realize it.
Make sure to have insulated water bottles and encourage everyone to drink throughout the day instead of waiting until they’re thirsty. Healthy snacks also help keep energy levels steady without relying entirely on concession stand treats at the community pool and to cut down on the in and out to the kitchen. I like to keep a big cooler by the pool with ice for grab-and-go drinks and snacks.
Fresh fruit such as watermelon or grapes adds extra hydration, while sandwiches, cheese sticks, crackers, trail mix, and granola bars are easy to eat between swims.
6. Have Entertainment Beyond the Pool
Even children who love swimming eventually need a break.
Keep a few dry-land activities available to help fill those quieter moments between swims. Waterproof playing cards, travel-sized games, coloring books, bubbles for younger kids, or a favorite chapter book can all keep everyone entertained while they rest.
These breaks also give kids a chance to cool down and recharge before heading back into the water.
7. Never Let Safety Take a Vacation
No matter how much fun everyone is having, water safety and sun safety should always come first.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading outside, then reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming and towel drying. Keep a close eye on children whenever they’re near the water, regardless of how confident they are as swimmers.
If needed, use properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, follow all posted pool rules, and encourage regular breaks in the shade to help prevent overheating and dehydration.
Make Every Pool Day Count
The best family pool days aren’t about expensive floats or fancy gear. They’re about showing up prepared so everyone can focus on having fun.
A few thoughtful choices, like lightweight clothing, comfortable sandals, plenty of water, healthy snacks, and a little advance planning, can make the entire day smoother from the first splash to the ride home.
Because when you’re spending less time worrying about what you forgot, you’ll have more time making the kind of summer memories that kids will remember long after the season is over.
