A kid’s pool party is certainly not a new birthday party idea, but they are a sure-fire hit with kids. Nothing can be more fun on a hot summer day than hitting the pool and splashing around with friends! And, the best part is you can rent out the local pool or aquatic center pretty reasonably (as far as kid parties go). Or, if you have your own pool, kiddie or inground, you may choose to have the party at home. A pool party can be a great, low-stress party. You don’t need to hire entertainment and once the kids get going, the adults can just sit back and chill while the kids have a blast in the water!
For even more birthday party ideas for Des Moines kids visit our Birthday Party Guide.
So, here’s how to throw an awesome pool party for Des Moines kids, whether you have a pool or not.
The Pool:
The most important component of a pool party is having a pool for you and your guests to use! dsm4kids has a list of all of the outdoor pools and aquatic centers in the Des Moines area. All of them offer a birthday party package. Visit their websites, do a little research, or contact the pool or aquatic center closest to you to learn about pricing, activities offered and party policies.
Pool Party Activities:
The great thing about a pool party is you really don’t have to have entertainment. Kids of any age will have a great time just playing in the water with their besties. If you feel like you need to have activities here’s a site that has some great pool party games. Pick two or three, just in case the party gets a little dull or some kids seem to be left out. You may not use all of them, but you will be ready.
Food:
In my experience, kids don’t really eat at birthday parties, they’re much too distracted. However, I don’t know what it is about swimming, it seems to make kids ravenous. So, I would suggest having a snack or food available for party guests. Most of the venues offer food as part of their party package or have concessions available. Another option is to bring your own snacks and have them “outside” the pool area. Several of the outdoor pools and aquatic centers in the Des Moines area are located in or near a park that have picnic tables or shady areas that are a great spot to take a break from swimming and have a snack.
Pool Party Decor & Favors:
One of the best parts about a pool party from a parent’s perspective is that most of the decor and party favors are already set because the party is in a pool! If the venue allows, you could bring along a few beach balls, floaties or water noodles, but it’s not necessary. And beach towels, goggles or sunglasses would make great party favors.
Keep Safety in Mind!
Safety around the pool should be your highest priority. Fun in the sun and splashing around the pool is great, but you don’t need anyone to get hurt. A few things to keep in mind to keep everyone safe at your pool party:
- Ask parents to let you know their child’s swimming levels, especially if their child can’t swim.
- Check to see if there will be a lifeguard on duty. If not, consider hiring one.
- All chaperones should be prepared to get in the water in case of an emergency.
- If it’s a public pool, there should be rules clearly posted. If it’s a private pool, you’ll want to create rules and explain them ahead of time. Diving and doing stunts are easy ways for kids to get seriously injured and you’ll want to prevent that before it starts.
- Keep sunscreen on-hand and encourage kids to apply it as needed.
