Swimming pool season is here and your children are probably itching to dive in and play with friends. But sometimes, swimming and splashing around alone can get old. If you’re stumped about ways to keep your youngsters entertained, try these fun games the next time you head to the local pool. 

4 Fun Water Games for Kids

1. Sharks & Minnows

This game of pool-based tag is sure to be a winner. One child is the shark, while the others are the minnows. The shark remains in one location as the minnows try to swim past without being tagged. Once tagged, kids are “out” until there is just one minnow left to escape the shark. This game can get rambunctious, so make sure your children are aware of other swimmers in the water who aren’t a part of the game.

2. What Time Is It, Mr. Fox 

This game is a variation on Mother May I?, and involves one child at the end of the pool playing Mr. Fox. The other players gather a distance away, and call out, “What time is it, Mr. Fox?” The fox character says a time, and that hour is the number of steps forward that players can take. At any time, the fox can call out “lunchtime,” and then a free for all begins as Mr. Fox tries to tag another player to become the new Mr. Fox. Little children enjoy this game so it should be played in the shallow end.

3. F.I.S.H.

In this game, one child is the leader, and the other players must follow whatever the leader does. Whether it’s jumping up high or making a funny face, if players don’t mimic the leader, they are given a letter from the word “fish.” As players spell the entire word, they go out. The last child standing is the winner. 

4. Octopus

This is a fun game that elicits lots of squeals and giggles. The game begins with one child playing as the octopus who tries to tag other players. Once tagged, kids link arms with the original “octopus.” Soon the octopus gains tentacles as more kids are tagged and becomes harder to evade. This game is challenging in a crowded public facility, but is a fun pastime during slow days or at a private pool party.

Swimming pool games are fun for kids and also enhance their swimming skills. Greene Valley Recreation Club, in Dayton, OH, has an open-air pool, snack bar, tennis court, sandbox, and other play facilities. They offer swimming lessons and a swim team for kids. The club also can be rented for private parties. Call (937) 426-3273 to inquire about membership or visit the website to see photos and a full list of member benefits.