By Karen Shadrach
The weather is finally summerlike and hot here in Northeast Ohio. Keeping the grandkids (and us) cool will require some water play. A short trip to a community pool or splash pad is an excellent choice for some water fun.
If going to a pool, choose one with a child’s area that has a walk-in entry. This will provide a large, shallow spot for kids to play in. It will also allow you to sit in the pool with the child at whatever water level is most comfortable.
Dip Tips
Packing arm/vest life preservers for the kids to wear will give you the security of knowing they will be safe if they venture into deeper waters. Make sure you have swimmy diapers on them (if needed) and be sure they wear hats, and always apply sunscreen for sun protection.
It is best for the kids to wear rash guard swimwear to give greater protection from the sun. Take frequent breaks and have snacks packed, along with plenty of juice/water to stay hydrated. Use these breaks to reapply sunscreen.
At the end of your swim time, I have found it easier to make the kids come out of the pool a little early to dry off in the sun and to get warm. Changing out of bathing suits and dressing into regular clothes for the ride home is a lot easier if they are dry.
Can’t get them out of the pool? A promise of a quick trip to the ice cream store will get them out of the pool and dressed quickly. Besides, ice cream is a cool and delicious way to end a fun afternoon.
If you choose the splash-pad idea, the same information above applies, but no life vest will be necessary. I like my grandkids to wear aqua shoes for more foot protection as they run around. Try to arrive early to avoid both the crowds and the midday sun. The splash-pad gives you the option to get wet with the kids or stay dry and just watch them from a nearby bench.
But There’s More!
Still afraid to venture to a public water spot? Stay at home and put up a small pool, sprinkler or water table in your yard. Actually, in the past, I have set up all three of these to create a water park. The grandkids love running from one activity to the other, which really tires them, and they don’t get bored. Meanwhile, you can just watch all the action while sitting under a shade tree. Bring out some beach towels and a cooler packed with snacks and drinks and you’re all set for the afternoon.
Whatever water play you choose, have fun and stay cool!
callout:
Our Grammy on the Go’s Favorite Water Spots
Elmwood Pool – Independence
Splash Park – Broadview Heights
Anthony Zielinski Splash Pad- Parma
Cedar Point Shores (Lemmy’s Lagoon) – Sandusky
Water Works Family Aquatic Center – Cuyahoga Falls
Interactive Water Fountain- Cuyahoga Falls
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Karen Shadrach is an on-the-go, in-the-know NEO grandmother of two sets of twins. The boys, Jefferson and Tyler, are 4, the girls, Abigail and Brianna, are 2. Do you have grandparenting questions about where to go and what to do when you get there? Email Karen at [email protected].
