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20 Best Kids Swimming Pools in 2024

last updated May 22, 2020

Dive right into some sunny afternoon fun with these backyard pools! Building a permanent pool in the yard can be a costly and lengthy endeavor. If you aren’t ready for that kind of commitment but still want your family to enjoy splashing around, consider one of these alternatives! We’ve got elaborate play centers, inflatable pools for infants and beyond, and sturdy metal pool structures, all listed below on our guide to the Top Ten Kids Swimming Pools of 2019!

In a Hurry? The test winner after 16 hrs of research

icon
Blast Zone Pirate Bay Inflatable Bounce & Water Park
87.5/100 our score
Durability
90
Entertainment Value
85
Physical Development
95
Design
80
Blast Zone Pirate Bay Inflatable Bounce & Water Park
Why is it better?

Includes built-in blower that inflates in under two minutes

Suitable for up to five children at a time with a maximum user weight of 100 pounds

20' x 12' x 8' when fully inflated

Features dual-spray cannons, bouncing station, crawl tunnel, and more

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Blast Zone Pirate Bay Inflatable Bounce & Water Park
Test Winner: Blast Zone Pirate Bay Inflatable Bounce & Water Park
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
17
Researched Sources
Reviews Considered
150
Reviews Considered
Hours Researching
16
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
8
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Jessica Mentzer:

When those summer months roll around parents are always looking for fun things to keep the kids busy. Swimming pools usually make this list and we have a list of those. These are all kids swimming pools that are easy to set up and are made just for your backyard. Each item has been reviewed during a recent review. Two of the products were replaced and each of the sections was updated.

Sorting Options
Durability Entertainment Value Physical Development Design By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.5
Durability
90 %
Entertainment Value
85 %
Physical Development
95 %
Design
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$579.99
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86.5
Durability
75 %
Entertainment Value
92 %
Physical Development
94 %
Design
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$32.39
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Durability
95 %
Entertainment Value
80 %
Physical Development
85 %
Design
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Durability
95 %
Entertainment Value
80 %
Physical Development
85 %
Design
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$52.79
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Durability
85 %
Entertainment Value
80 %
Physical Development
90 %
Design
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Durability
85 %
Entertainment Value
90 %
Physical Development
85 %
Design
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$473.69
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Durability
85 %
Entertainment Value
80 %
Physical Development
90 %
Design
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$14.48
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Durability
90 %
Entertainment Value
80 %
Physical Development
85 %
Design
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$315.74
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Durability
85 %
Entertainment Value
80 %
Physical Development
85 %
Design
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$47.99
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Durability
80 %
Entertainment Value
85 %
Physical Development
80 %
Design
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$103.30
#11
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81.5
Durability
80 %
Entertainment Value
82 %
Physical Development
84 %
Design
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$15.48
#12
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80.8
Durability
78 %
Entertainment Value
80 %
Physical Development
83 %
Design
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$16.59
#13
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
78.5
Durability
80 %
Entertainment Value
77 %
Physical Development
79 %
Design
78 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$19.99
#14
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
77.5
Durability
77 %
Entertainment Value
79 %
Physical Development
78 %
Design
76 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$48.00
#15
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
77.3
Durability
75 %
Entertainment Value
79 %
Physical Development
77 %
Design
78 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
#16
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
74.8
Durability
73 %
Entertainment Value
75 %
Physical Development
76 %
Design
75 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$26.76
#17
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
73.5
Durability
73 %
Entertainment Value
72 %
Physical Development
74 %
Design
75 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
#18
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
71.8
Durability
70 %
Entertainment Value
74 %
Physical Development
72 %
Design
71 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$32.95
#19
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
70.8
Durability
70 %
Entertainment Value
72 %
Physical Development
71 %
Design
70 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
#20
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
69.5
Durability
70 %
Entertainment Value
68 %
Physical Development
69 %
Design
71 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.04.24)
Amazon Link
$29.99

20 Best Kid's Swimming Pools Reviewed

1. Blast Zone Pirate Bay Inflatable Bounce & Water Park

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.5
Blast Zone Pirate Bay Inflatable Bounce & Water Park
Blast Zone Pirate Bay Inflatable Bounce & Water Park
Blast Zone Pirate Bay Inflatable Bounce & Water Park
Amazon Link
Durability
90
Entertainment Value
85
Physical Development
95
Design
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$579.99

Includes built-in blower that inflates in under two minutes

Suitable for up to five children at a time with a maximum user weight of 100 pounds

20' x 12' x 8' when fully inflated

Features dual-spray cannons, bouncing station, crawl tunnel, and more

The blower must be left on at all times to avoid water leaking out

The pool can take a very long time to drain and dry out when not in use

There is no way you can go wrong with the Blast Zone Pirate's Bay Inflatable Bounce & Water Park. This massive summer kids pool is more than 20 feet long when fully inflated and has plenty of room for you, your kids, and all of your kid’s friends! Don’t worry about disappointing your little one with a long setup process either, this water park comes with a built-in blower that can completely inflate the huge structure in under two minutes!

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Durability

Premium, quality materials, and reinforced stress points make this inflatable play area safe as well as fun. Commercial-grade vinyl is utilized to give the best support possible and the entire park is reinforced with quadruple high-quality stitching.

Entertainment Value

Your house will be the #1 destination spot this summer when you break out this giant pirate-themed pool! Crawl tunnels, slides, and splash zones give your child dozens of places to play and keep cool. Two water shooters wait at the front of the water park while a bounce house rests at the top, providing yet another play feature!

Physical Development

Your little one can have a full exercise experience with this pool, working out different muscle groups as they run, jump, slide, and bounce. Motor-skills development and coordination are enhanced through playing with the water shooters, climbing areas, and crawl tunnel. Most importantly, this play area is so large that it encourages your child to invite other kids, helping to build friendships and teach socialization skills.

Design

At the end of the day, your drained and dried pool can roll up tight to be no larger than a rolled sleeping bag, making storage quick and simple!

2. Intex Mini Frame

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86.5
Intex Mini Frame
Amazon Link
Durability
75
Entertainment Value
92
Physical Development
94
Design
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$32.39

Mini sized pool just right for kids

Set includes frame, liner with drain plug, and repair kit with patches

Frame constructed from galvanized steel

Measures at 48 inches wide and 12 inches deep

Pool holds approximately 89 gallons of water

Small sized kids pool, review dimensions before purchasing

Legs to the frame come loose easily

When those hot summer days hit your house and the kids are ready to get out of the house, but you don’t want to go far. This is the perfect kid's sized pool for the job. It is a mini framed pool. It features a frame that is on the outside of the pool and holds the liner in place. Measuring at about a foot tall it is a great place for the kids to be able to get into the water and splash around.

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Durability

The frame of this pool has been constructed for durability. Each of the pieces of the frame easily slides together to create a square then the pool liner is installed to be supported from the frame. The horizontal beams have been wrapped in foam for extra comfortable and safe. It protects the liner and also is an added safety measure for when the little ones are getting in and out of the pool.

Entertainment Value

Swimming on a hot summer day is one of the most entertaining things that kids can do. It allows them to play, splash, and hard out all that energy. A few pool games with some friends and you will soon have your kids telling you they have the best day ever. It is a simple pool with a large value of fun.

Physical Development

Swimming is a great way to develop gross motor skills. The moving of the arms and legs when splashing around works basically the whole body created an overall effect. It is fun and easy to convince them to get into the pool the only hard part will be getting them to come back into the house.

Design

The design of this pool is simple. It features a galvanized steel metal frame that holds the pool liner in place. Each of the poles that run along the top of the pool has been wrapped in foam and the poles that go to the ground to support the frame feature a plastic cap to keep them in place. It is easy to set up and only takes 89 gallons of water to fill the pool 9 ½ inches deep. It is just the perfect amount of water to be able to let the kids splash around without having to have a filter and professional installation.

3. Intex Sandy Shark Spray

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Intex Sandy Shark Spray
Amazon Link
Durability
95
Entertainment Value
80
Physical Development
85
Design
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Features a spraying tail that is compatible with most standard garden hoses

Crafted using highly durable 11-gauge vinyl

Holds only seven inches of water, perfect for cooling off with concerns of drowning

Measures 90” x 89” x 42” when fully inflated

Spraying tail covers the entire pool which can be upsetting for some children

May leak air or deflate over time

Baby shark, doo doo doo doo doo! Introducing the Intex Sandy Shark Spray Pool! This pool features a delightful shark shape that is sure to delight your preschooler! This pool inflates to more than seven feet long, proving it's no little guppy! Its tail extends overhead and connects to your garden hose to provide a cool misting spray that covers the entire pool surface.

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Durability

It holds up to seven inches of water at a time, making it ideal for adult use as well as being easily usable by several children at once. Several reviewers even report using this pool as a shower for their dogs!

Entertainment Value

A large air-intake port helps inflate and deflate this pool quickly using an air compressor or an air-mattress pump (not included). The water capacity of this pool is the perfect amount for swimming and splashing without drowning concerns

Physical Development

Its open design means that your child will always be in sight as they strengthen their arm and legs muscles and build water confidence.

Design

Large enough for an adult, this little pool is the perfect splash and spray place for your preschooler to stay cool this summer.

4. Intex Candy Zone Inflatable Play Center

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Intex Candy Zone Inflatable Play Center
Intex Candy Zone Inflatable Play Center
Intex Candy Zone Inflatable Play Center
Amazon Link
Durability
95
Entertainment Value
80
Physical Development
85
Design
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$52.79

Perfect water play center for some summer fun

Features a small pool and sprayer with a candy theme

Includes a slide, two lollipops, balls to slide down the rails, and a rail for the balls

Extra padding from the landing pad provides added safety

Best suited for kids 2 years old to 10 years old

Over a dozen valves used to inflate pool and features

Main ring that is blue requires a large air pump with fitting

Treat the kids to a sweet candy themed pool for the summer months. It has a water slide in the center with a sprayer that easily attaches to your garden hose. Plus there are two lollipops and six balls that come along with the pool. The added accessories blow up and add to the fun and excitement. It gives the kids multiple activities to entertain themselves with while using this pool play center.

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Durability

Constructed from heavy grade vinyl this pool is created to allow the kids to have some fun and stand up to the test of time. Included with the set is also a repair patch kid. If the unfortunate event occurs and pool happens to get a leak it is easy to repair with this kit.

Entertainment Value

From the water slide to the ball rails this pool play center will provide kids with endless hours of fun. It has been created to entertain and capture their attention with bright colors and candy themed. The sweet themed center will be the talk of all their friends. The extras included with the inflatable lollipops and the six balls for the rails are the icing on the cake.

Physical Development

Running, splashing, sliding, and rolling. These are activities and so much more that can be completed with this kid’s pool play center. It has been designed to keep them busy. When the kids are busy they are happy and when they are happy parents often are too. It provides them with a physical activity that is great for the gross motor skill developmental skill set.

Design

Keeping the kids cool and entertained during the summer can often be a struggle. This pool play center has been designed to make those days easier. It provides kids with multiple activities to keep them busy and entertained. From having a few friends over to just hanging out with the parents this is a sweet kids pool that they will just love.

5. Intex Sunset Glow

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Intex Sunset Glow
Intex Sunset Glow
Intex Sunset Glow
Amazon Link
Durability
85
Entertainment Value
80
Physical Development
90
Design
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Holds up to 22 gallons of water

Inflates easily

Durable material

Soft, inflatable floor

Comes with patches

Difficult to inflate quickly

No need to throw the baby out with the bathwater when it comes to finding a safe, infant-friendly inflatable kids pool. The Intex Sunset Glow Baby Pool is the perfect size for your little one. Small, and built with high walls, it’s roomy enough for baby to comfortably sit and splash around, without being so wide or deep as to be a serious safety concern

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Durability

This pool is just big enough to fit your little one and a friend or two. It’s not very deep, and you control how much water goes in it, so it’s a solid option when it comes to acclimating your baby to water.

Entertainment Value

This pool can be utilized to bathe little ones and pets, and also makes a great ball pit, if the weather isn’t quite ideal for baby’s poolside party. Of course, you’ll still need to supervise but it’s pretty eye to keep a watchful eye when you’re looking at just a few feet of splashy fun.

Physical Development

They’ll love the bright colors and the chance to splash around.

Design

It’s a solid deal; it’s definitely on the cheaper end of the spectrum of inflatable pools, but it seems to be pretty durable, and it’s perfectly sized for baby. Plus, it’s multi-functional, so if you don’t want to fill it up with water, it still can serve a purpose during baby’s playtime.

6. Intex 15ft X 48in Metal Frame Set

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Intex 15ft X 48in Metal Frame Set
Intex 15ft X 48in Metal Frame Set
Intex 15ft X 48in Metal Frame Set
Amazon Link
Durability
85
Entertainment Value
90
Physical Development
85
Design
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$473.69

Large, semi-permanent pool

Four feet deep

Rust-proof walls

Includes ladder and cover

Easy to set up; no tools required

Needs to be laid out on even ground

Ladder is flimsy

If you’re looking for a sturdier, more permanent pool, consider this Intex Metal Frame Pool Structure. At roughly eighteen feet around and four feet deep, this is truly a family size value. The set rust-proof frames, snap-on joints, a ladder, a drop cloth, and a pool cover.

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Durability

No tools are necessary for construction. Setup is easy (though a little involved timewise), and it can be both filled and drained via a garden hose.

Entertainment Value

It’s as close as you can get to having a moderately sized permanent pool in your backyard without digging a hole and laying down the concrete. This pool is roomy, rust-proof, and ready to swim in within a day or two of arrival!

Physical Development

This pool is significantly more roomy than many of its contemporaries, meaning your family has a much larger space to swim in. This encourages swimmers to paddle, stroke, and float, strengthening muscles and building cardiovascular endurance.

Design

It will take roughly 14 hours or so to fill the pool, and you’ll want to look into the proper cleaning supplies and chemicals, but it’s a solid structure with enough room for the whole family to swim around and enjoy together.

7. Mushroom Baby

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Mushroom Baby
Mushroom Baby
Mushroom Baby
Amazon Link
Durability
85
Entertainment Value
80
Physical Development
90
Design
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$14.48

40 inches in diameter with 5 inch wall and can hold up to 4 inches of water at once

Fun mushroom sunshade

Inflatable bottom with threading to help prevent slipping

Includes a leak patch for repairs

Mushroom sun shade can start to droop or deflate after hours of use and must be inflatd again.

When looking for a really small kids pool, you don’t have to look very far. Intex’s Mushroom Baby Pool is one of the cutest and most lovable swimming fixtures we have ever seen.

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Durability

The Mushroom Baby holds approximately 12 gallons of water and fills up to 4 inches of water.

Entertainment Value

It’s quaint and truly colorful with a red mushroom canopy attached to the tubular kiddy pool which is, itself, decorated with a colorful mushroom character that should remind you of the adventures of Mario and Luigi.

Physical Development

This precious little pool will give a toddler a fun water experience while protecting their delicate skin from harmful UV rays. The cute little mushroom shape pool as a little sun shade on top to keep a kid cool as they frolic in the water. This little pool also has bright colors and shapes that will be pleasing to a child’s sensory perceptions. The perfect first portable pool for a kid just starting out in life.

Design

Propping your young child to sit in the cushiony bottom of the Mushroom Baby should be relatively safe

8. Little Tikes Slam 'n Curve Slide

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Little Tikes Slam 'n Curve Slide
Little Tikes Slam 'n Curve Slide
Amazon Link
Durability
90
Entertainment Value
80
Physical Development
85
Design
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$315.74

Utilizes puncture-resistant material for maximum durability

Includes a rock wall, slide, pool, and basketball hoop

Stakes into the ground for added stability

Suitable for up to three children at a time up to a maximum weight of 350 pounds

Mold can form if the pool is not drained and dried out completely which can take a long time

Seams along footholds and connecting points can pull apart over time

One of the biggest concerns with water play is the possibility of drowning or injuries if your little one gets out of sight. Your little one and their friends can play safely while you relax nearby. You will have a hard time convincing your kiddo to leave this pool behind at the end of the day!

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Durability

A built-in blower makes the setup and take-down of this slide and pool combo simple and quick. Reinforced stitching, high-quality materials, and ground stakes keep it stable and durable for a whole summer’s worth of play.

Entertainment Value

This large inflatable pool features several fun water activities from a rock climbing wall to a curved slide. The bottom of the slide empties into a wading pool for splashing fun and even includes a basketball hoop for added play!

Physical Development

Your child can build leg and arm muscle tone as they scale the rock wall, conquer their fear of heights on the slide, and gain new water confidence in the wading pool. Since this water play center is designed to be used by multiple children at once it is perfect for birthday parties, picnics, and other warm-weather social events.

Design

With large play spaces, that can happen frequently as they duck inside of crawl tunnels or other pockets, leaving us as parents to try to coax them out and make sure that they are alright. With the Little Tikes Slam ‘N Curve Slide, there are no hidden corners or out-of-sight areas.

9. Intex Rainbow Ring Inflatable Play Center

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Intex Rainbow Ring Inflatable Play Center
Intex Rainbow Ring Inflatable Play Center
Intex Rainbow Ring Inflatable Play Center
Amazon Link
Durability
85
Entertainment Value
80
Physical Development
85
Design
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$47.99

Water slide

Wading pool area

Ring toss with inflatable rings included

Ball toss with plastic balls included

Connect to garden hose to spray water while kids splash and play

It’s a lot of work to put this together; you’ll need an air pump and some patience

Want a little bit of everything for your spring and summer fun? Try the Intex Rainbow Ring Inflatable Play Center. This play center includes a water slide, wading pool, ring toss game, four inflatable rings, and a water sprayer, along with six plastic balls to play a rolling game.

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Durability

It holds up to 77 gallons of water and can be connected simply to the garden hose to keep the water running and cool.

Entertainment Value

It’s colorful, full of activities for the whole family, and big enough for a few kids to play together inside at the same time.

Physical Development

This little play center not only gets kids up and moving but also helps to develop their hand-eye coordination and motor skills with its inflatable ring toss game, as well as the plastic balls that can be rolled down the sides or thrown through the hoops at the back of the play center.

Design

This play center has so many fun features going for it. Kids will have plenty to keep them occupied while they play, given the different games they can play, as well as the water slide and water sprayer.

10. Step2 Play and Shade

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Step2 Play and Shade
Amazon Link
Durability
80
Entertainment Value
85
Physical Development
80
Design
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$103.30

Comes with umbrella to provide shade from the sun

Easy assembly

Molded flooring to prevent slipping

Set comes with seven pieces

Additional toys can be purchased separately

The simplistic design may not keep the attention of toddlers for long periods of time.

Step2 Play and Shade does just what its name states, provides shade and inspires playtime. Included with this water set is an umbrella that hangs over the pool keeping children's delicate skin from being exposed to the harsh rays of the sun. To encourage playtime activities, the seven-piece set comes with three funnel cups and a spinning water wheel.

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Durability

Its grooved floor and molded seats provide children with a safety feature to help parents, guardians, and loved ones feel secure in their purchase.

Entertainment Value

For days that are just too cold for water play, this pool can double as a sandbox or for more fun combine both and simulate a beach environment for your little one to enjoy.

Physical Development

Two seats molded into this pool promotes socialization amongst your toddler and their siblings or friends.

Design

The safety of our children is generally our first priority, and this pool does just that. Step2 designed this pool in a way that is meant to eliminate slipping or sinking that can cause drowning.

11. Intex Crystal Blue

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81.5
INTEX Crystal Blue Kids Outdoor Inflatable 58" Swimming Pool
INTEX Crystal Blue Kids Outdoor Inflatable 58" Swimming Pool size
INTEX Crystal Blue Kids Outdoor Inflatable 58" Swimming Pool size display
Amazon Link
Durability
80
Entertainment Value
82
Physical Development
84
Design
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$15.48

Affordable

Durable design

Hard to manually inflate

Small

Simplicity is the name of the game when it comes to this design from Intex. It boasts a basic shape and design that comes in at a super affordable price point.

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Durability

As with any Intex product, this option is made from incredibly durable materials. Parents have the option to select the base model or spend a little extra money to select the option that comes with a pump (and a set of repair patches). According to previous users, selecting the option with the pump will save you a lot of time and trouble and lung capacity.

Entertainment Value

When fully inflated, this design measures to have a circumference of 45 inches, and it 10 inches deep. It is able to hold about 6.5 inches of water, making it perfect for your little ones that need to cool off in the heat of the summer.

Physical Developement

For those in the market for something simple, affordable, and made from quality materials, this is a great option.

Design

It may not come with any fun bells and whistles, or have any colorful designs, but will successfully cool off your little ones while saving you some money at the same time!

12. Intex Snorkel Buddies

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80.8
Intex Snorkel Buddies Snapset Pool
Intex Snorkel Buddies Snapset Pool display
Amazon Link
Durability
78
Entertainment Value
80
Physical Development
83
Design
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$16.59

Trusted brand

Quick set up

Bottom punctures easily

Don’t like the idea of blowing anything up? This simple option from Intex doesn’t require the use of your lungs or an additional pump to get the party started.

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Durability

As we mentioned before, users do not need to inflate this design. It simply snaps into place for quick and easy setup. It is composed of stitched materials that are similar to a thick canvas or vinyl. The set also comes with a repair patch in the event that something punctures the bottom and creates a leak.

Entertainment Value

The outside of this design is bright and colorful and something your kids are sure to love. It is accented with ocean fish and cartoon children snorkeling.

Physical Development

This design measures to be 5 feet wide and stands up 10 inches tall. Per the manufacturer, this design is made for children ages 3 and up.

If you are in the market for something that is made from quality materials that come from a trusted brand, this is a great choice. It is offered at a super affordable price point and sports a style that will hold up for many summers if you take good care of it.

Design

This design ships compactly folded, and all you need to do it unfold and fill it with water to get started.

13. VIVI MAO

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
78.5
VIVI MAO Garden Round Inflatable Baby Swimming Pool
VIVI MAO Garden Round Inflatable Baby Swimming Pool detail
VIVI MAO Garden Round Inflatable Baby Swimming Pool detail 2
Amazon Link
Durability
80
Entertainment Value
77
Physical Development
79
Design
78
best offer for today
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$19.99

Inflatable base

Cute design

Quality PVC

Smaller than most

Shallow

If comfortable and style are two of your big concerns, you will want to check out this option from VIVI MAO.

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Durability

The very first thing that we noticed about this inflatable side is that it also inflates on the base. The bubble base is a great way to ensure that there is a buffer between your children and the hard ground in the even of rough play while splashing around.

Entertainment Value

This design is a little on the small side, and measures to be 47 inches wide and only 8 inches deep. Most standard designs are at least 10 inches deep, so the water that this option holds is more shallow than most.

Physical Development

If you are in the market for something that is designed for super small children to keep them comfortable and protected this is a great design.

Design

It has a simple and small footprint that is accented with adorable sea creatures on the outside as well as the inside. It also comes with a few features to keep your kids comfortable as well as protected.

It costs a little bit more than similar designs out there on the market, but we feel that that extra cost is well worth it in the long run.

14. Hoovy Rocket

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
77.5
Rocket Pool with Water Slide
Rocket Pool with Water Slide display
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Durability
77
Entertainment Value
79
Physical Development
78
Design
76
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$48.00

Sprinkler

Inflatable slide

Fun design

Long setup

Small

Your little ones are sure to have a blast with this design from Hoovy. Not only does it offer a fun central chamber to splash around, but it also has a few other fun features to keep your kids cool and entertained all summer long. Plus, it comes in at a price that won’t break the bank.

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Entertainment Value

If you are in the market for something that is a little bit different than your standard circle disks of water, this is a wonderful alternative. It is packed with fun features that your little ones are sure to love, and won’t get bored with all summer long!

Physical Development

This design has a central chamber that is a little bit on the shallow side. It also has a sprinkler system set up in the front of the unit to keep kids cool and prevent them from drying out! The best part of this design is that it has an inflatable pool that dumps your little ones in the water.

Design

Everything about this design is inflatable, so be sure that your lungs are ready (or invest in an air pump!). The central chamber, the bride, the slide, and the rocket ship is all inflatable and take quite a while to fully inflate. When fully assembled, this unit measures to be 53 inches long, 52 inches wide, and 51 inches tall.

15. BOVN Watermelon

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
77.3
BOVN Watermelon Inflatable Kiddie Pool
BOVN Watermelon Inflatable Kiddie Pool features
BOVN Watermelon Inflatable Kiddie Pool features 2
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Durability
75
Entertainment Value
79
Physical Development
77
Design
78
best offer for today
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Sharp design

Deeper them most

Slightly more expensive

The style and design of this option from BOVN are like a wonderful slice of summer. The design of this adorable pool will look great in your back yard, and your little ones will love splashing around inside.

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Durability

It is composed of quality materials that will hold up over the summer, and it comes in at a reasonable price point that gives you little reason not to give this option a look.

Entertainment Value

The very first thing that we noticed about this option is that it has a sharp design that is unlike anything else out there on the market. The outside looks like the rhine of a watermelon, and the inside is the inside of the watermelon. It has an inflatable shell, so be prepared to set some time aside to inflate it.

Physical Development

For parents that want something that looks great and is big enough for their small and larger children, this is a great option. It may take a little bit to fully inflate, but the ensured result is worth it!

Design

This option is just slightly larger than some of the other designs out there on the market. It measures to be 49 inches around, and 12 inches high. This means that you have the option to fill the center with almost a foot of water, which is more than some of the more shallow designs out there on the market.

16. Intex Swim Center Clearview Aquarium

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
74.8
Intex Swim Center Clearview Aquarium Inflatable Pool
Intex Swim Center Clearview Aquarium Inflatable Pool on display
Amazon Link
Durability
73
Entertainment Value
75
Physical Development
76
Design
75
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$26.76

Larger than most

Fun design

Frosted PVC

Slow drain plug

Want something that is a little bit different than the basic rounded designs? This square option from Intex does things a little bit differently and is the perfect option for your little ones. Parents and kids alike love the design of this option, and it is large enough for kids of most ages!

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Durability

As with all Intex products it is made from quality materials that hold up well over the years and comes in at an affordable price point.

Entertainment Value

What kids love most about this squared design is that it has a large central chamber that is perfect for splashing. It has high sides to lean up against or to fill with even more water. The outside boasts adorable and colorful sea creatures against a frosted white backdrop.

Physical Development

The thing that makes this style different from other options out there on the market is the size. It measures to be 62.5 inches long, 62.5 inches wide, and 19.5 inches high. While it may not be ideal for your toddlers, it is a perfect option for your older kids to cool off this summer.

Design

If you are in the market for something that is just slightly bigger for your older kids, this design from Intex is a great option.

17. Homech

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
73.5
Homech Family Inflatable Swimming Pool
Homech Family Inflatable Swimming Pool features
Homech Family Inflatable Swimming Pool features 2
Amazon Link
Durability
73
Entertainment Value
72
Physical Development
74
Design
75
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Very large

Pump included

Divided chambers

Slightly expensive

If your kids have been asking for a real pool and you just can’t swing the cost (or space) this option from Homech is a great choice.

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Durability

We know what you’re thinking: this large design has to take centuries to inflate. While it will take you a while to inflate this unit, there are a few tools provided to make your life a little easier. First of all, this unit is divided into 3 chambers, so if there is a leak in one chamber the whole thing won’t collapse. It also comes with a pump, so those lungs can sigh a sigh of relief!

Entertainment Value

It is important to keep in mind that his design isn’t great for toddlers, but it will be something they love as they grow older. Plus, considering its size, it is offered at a very affordable price point.

Physical Developemnt

If you are in the market for something that the entire family will love, this design from Homech is a great option. While your toddlers will have to sit this one at for a few years, it is something that they will grow into and love for years to come!

Design

This option boasts a rectangular design that is perfect for 6 kids, or 2 adults and 4 kids. It is 95 inches long, 56 inches wide, and stands to be 22 inches tall. This means that when filled, it provides almost 2 feet of water. The inflatable design also makes it super comfortable to lean up against and climb in and out.

18. Intex Swim Center Paradise

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
71.8
Intex Swim Center Paradise Inflatable Pool
Intex Swim Center Paradise Inflatable Pool 2
Amazon Link
Durability
70
Entertainment Value
74
Physical Development
72
Design
71
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$32.95

Large footprint

Cute design

Dual air chambers

Pump not included

If you want something that is perfect for your little ones that are 3 and up, this is a great design. What parents love most about this design is that it offers a large footprint without being too deep which is great when your kids have their friends over! Plus, it comes in at a price point that won’t break the bank.

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Durability

This unit requires it to be inflated, and the downside is that it does not come with a pump included with purchase. We recommend purchasing a pump when you place your order so save your lungs some work, and to also save time as well.

Physical Development

Children love that it provides them with a lot of room to splash and play, and parents love that it comes in at a price point that doesn’t break the bank.

If you are in the market for something that comes from a trusted brand that will stand up well over the years, this is a great option.

Design

The very first thing that we noticed about this design was the size. It measures to be 103 inches long, 63 inches wide, and 18 inches tall. When filled with water, it holds just shy of 2 feet, but this level can be adjusted based upon the age of your little ones.

19. Intex Stars

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
70.8
Intex Inflatable Stars Kiddie 2 Ring Circles Swimming Pool
Intex Inflatable Stars Kiddie 2 Ring Circles Swimming Pool on display
Amazon Link
Durability
70
Entertainment Value
72
Physical Development
71
Design
70
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Very affordable

Easy to inflate

Small

If you just want something small and durable to hold water that allows your little ones to cool off this summer, this design is a great option that comes in at a super affordable price point.

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Durability

It may not be the biggest or packed with fun features, but it is made from quality materials that come from one of the most trusted brands out there on the market.

It measures 48 inches in diameter and stands to be 10 inches tall. This means that it holds around 9 inches of water which is perfect for toddlers or smaller children. This option comes in a ton of fun styles and color options that will look great in any outdoor space.

Entertainment Value

If you are in the market for something super simple and well made that gets the job done, this option from Intex is one of your best options. While it doesn’t come with a lot of fun features aside from the style, it is offered at one of the most affordable price points of any of the other options out there on the market.

Design

Simplicity is the name of the game when it comes to this design. It has 2 rings around the outside that inflate fairly quickly. Parents may not even feel the need to employ the use of an air pump to inflate this model.

20. HIWENA

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
69.5
HIWENA Baby Pool
HIWENA Baby Pool features
HIWENA Baby Pool 2
Amazon Link
Durability
70
Entertainment Value
68
Physical Development
69
Design
71
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$29.99

Easy setup

Sun shield

Very small

The great thing about this design from HIWENA is that it does a really great job of keeping your toddlers entertained engaged while also keeping them cool. There are a few features on this design that make it stand out from the rest, and has a fun style that your little one is sure to love.

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Entertainement Value

This unit also comes with a gentle sprinkle that sprays cool water on your little one as they splash around under the rainbow. The sprinkle is super easy to hook up, and simply requires the use of your garden hose.

Physical Development

The very first thing that we noticed about this design is that is has a rainbow that creates a clamshell effect. While kids feel like they are playing under a rainbow, parents will know that the rainbow is actually shielding them from the harsh summer sun.

Design

If you are in the market for something that boasts a simple design that helps keep your little one cool engaged, and shielded from the hard ray of the summer sun, this is a great choice. It is super easy to set up and comes in at an affordable price point.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Durability

The best thing a parent can do is to help the child to see that water can be fun, but it also can be dangerous. A child who is taught at an early age what to do and what not to do while in a kiddie pool will learn about water safety. This is a valuable lesson that a kid can learn. A child can also learn how to swim and even how float in the water as well, again learning more about being water safe while having fun.

Entertainment Value

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, young children between the ages of 1 and 4 years old are at highest risk for drowning with a majority of the deaths occurring in backyard swimming pools, the kind that you inflate, fill with water, and let your young kids have all the fun they want to. Between 2005 and 2014, 20 percent of all people who die because of accidental drowning are kids no older than 14 years old.

Additionally, for every child who loses his or her life because of accidental drowning, another five children are treated in emergency rooms for injuries sustained secondary to non-fatal submersion incidents. While these incidents are non-fatal, they can cause brain damage severe enough to lead to long-term physical disabilities and cognitive impairments.

Children who are victims of near-drowning are at risk for the permanent loss of fundamental physiological functioning, learning disabilities, and/or memory problems. These can have serious implications in the overall development of children, especially the younger ones

Physical Development

Just splashing around in the water can help a child strengthen their muscles in their arms and their legs. In fact, it has been determined that movement inside of a pool is a great form or exercise and even physical therapy. Water can actually make movements seem effortless but actually does cause some resistance without any impact. This is something that is beneficial to a young child who is still strengthening their young muscles and also learning proper coordination. Kids pool fun can help them to sharpen their motor skills without them feeling as if they are being made to work out or exercise.

Design

If there are other built-in features to the pool, then our researchers had to carefully evaluate them to determine their developmental appropriateness to the age of children as specified in the manufacturer’s recommended age group. We had to make sure that children will not only have fun playing with water but also can derive other developmental benefits. Those types of pools were included on our list.

We also read the comments as well as feedback of consumers who have already tried the product. We tried to understand what these folks were saying so we can also get a general idea as to the usefulness of the product and whether it is a good buy or not. We know that these comments are subjective in nature and, as such, we had to carefully evaluate each one and compare it to the rest of the customer reviews for any particular pool.

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Parents, Did You Know?

Here are some other very interesting yet very serious concerns about accidental drowning among children.

There are around 350 children below the age of 5 years who die each year because of accidental drowning.

A great number of these incidents occur in the summer months from June to August and often in backyard swimming pools.

More than 2,500 children receive emergency medical treatment for near-drowning every year.

The healthcare costs associated with hospitalizations can easily reach up to $2,000 if the child is able to recuperate well from his or her injuries; up to $80,000 if the child suffers severe brain damage even reaching to $150,000 in very severe cases of brain damage.

The majority of the victims were under the supervision of either Mmm or dad or even both at the time of the accident.

The majority of the cases of accidental drowning in children occur in very familiar surroundings with the family pool accounting for 65 percent of the cases and the remainder occurring in pools owned by persons known to the family either as relatives or as friends.

Parents, Did You Know?

The survival of children after a drowning incident is closely associated with the length of time that they are submerged. The longer they stay submerged, the greater the risk of developing serious brain damage, and the greater the risk for loss of life as well. This is because not enough oxygen is supplied to the brain leading to irreversible ischemic changes. If the child survives the incident, there is a strong likelihood that there will be learning disabilities which can hamper the child’s overall development. In such cases, he or she will require the assistance of a specialist as well as the special care and attention of mom and dad as well as other members of his or her family.

Parents, Did You Know?

Before you allow your child to take a dip in his or her pool, make sure that you have read and fully understood the manufacturer’s instructions especially related to the safe use of the product. Many parents believe that kiddie pools are simple inflate-and-use devices and that there is no longer any need to read some fine print on the manual that comes with the package. Perhaps, partly to blame, are the manufacturers themselves because they often print safety protocols and guidelines in very fine print that you would need a magnifying glass to read. The point is for us parents to really sit down and take the time to read the manual before allowing our kids to use the pool.

Parents, Did You Know?

One of the best ways we can help keep our children safe while swimming is to teach them how to swim. If you cannot teach them yourself, you can always enroll them in a swimming class. Experts agree that this is one of the best ways prevent drowning among children. The earlier you can teach your child to swim, the better he or she will be in keeping himself or herself safe from drowning. Of course, our undivided attention whenever our kids are in the water is paramount. Our quick reflexes and decision-making skills can help save the life of our precious little ones while also helping ensure they don’t get emotionally, cognitively, psychologically, and physically scarred for the rest of their lives.

Parents, Did You Know?

Does this mean it’s not a good idea to introduce our young kids to the joys of swimming? Not necessarily so. Just heed what child-care experts have always been telling us, vigilance is the key to making sure our kids are safe with and around the different things that we provide to them. For example, we can look at the following tips whenever we are going to buy an inflatable pool for our children.

Make sure that the water level of the pool is just right for the age of your child. Sometimes a hard plastic wading pool is recommended as this can provide the same sensory experience derived by children from swimming pools.

You may want to choose a pool that has grab handle bars on its interior wall sidings so that the child will have something to hold onto in case he or she loses his or her balance.

Parents, Did You Know?

These statistics simply show just how risky it is to leave our young children unattended. The report on accidental drowning victims being under the supervision of parents or at least one of them does not explain why. However, experts say that this can be best explained by the fact that almost half of those cases reported having seen their children last in the house with about 23 percent having been seen last in the yard. This simply means that parents are not really having their eyes glued onto their children.

Parents can also get distracted so that they no longer focus on what their children are doing. Perhaps one of the most intriguing explanations is the belief of parents that the house is the safest place for kids to be. Nothing can go wrong especially if mom or dad is around. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long for drowning to exert its full effect on the human body, especially that of a young child. Young children have been reported to have accidentally drowned within the same length of time that mom went inside the house and answered the phone. By the time mom returned, the baby is already floating in his or her kids swimming pool.

Other Factors to Consider

Safety

We took the time to chose only safe, non-toxic types of kiddie pools for this list. Why? Because we know the importance of making play time safe as well. No parent wants to think of their child being exposed to harmful chemicals which can be found in certain types of plastic products. So, when choosing the pools on our list, we found the ones we knew were nontoxic to provide extra peace of mind.

Safety is a major concern whenever swimming is involved. As such, we made sure that our list of the top 10 kiddie swim pools are made of highly safe and non-toxic materials. We also had to make sure that they are durable and come with a variety of safety features to help minimize injuries among young children. We also had to look at the ease of setting up, maintenance, and storage as these are major issues with which parents have to contend

Social Development

Even if it’s just spending some quality time with their parents, a kid's swimming pool is a good way for a child to learn social interaction. When they become older and start interacting with other kids, hanging out at the pool or the beach can be a venue to encourage that interaction. Also, it’s a way for kids to get out and have outdoor activities. So, a kid’s swimming pool could very well put a child on a path of having a fun-filled hobby that will lead to interaction with their peers and fun family quality time.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: What are the perimeters of a kiddie pool?

a:

The first sign that a pool is designed by use of a kid is the fun themes that are involved. The pool will have bright colors, have fun-filled imaginative activities perhaps included. There will also be the fact that these are compacted and be labeled for use by children. Also, as shown above there are many different types. Some are designed for infants, some for toddlers, some for older kids. Here are some basic principles that do govern most kiddie pool models.

They are put up by the individual who bought it not a pool manufacturer
They are more compact and not as deep as standard pools
They don’t require filter units or pump

q: Should an adult monitor a child while they are in the kiddie pool?

a:

This goes without saying with infants and toddlers when placing them in kiddie pools. It is also recommended for older kids as well especially the ones who aren’t in the company of another child such as a friend or sibling. Remember, it only takes few inches of water and a matter of seconds for a child to drown, so it’s not a good idea to leave them on their own while they are in a kiddie pool or a even bathtub for that matter. This is an important thing for a parent to follow when a child is under the age of 5 years old.

q: How often should the kiddie pool be drained?

a:

Kiddie pools aren’t like standard adult pools. These are far more compacted and it’s recommended for the very small ones, especially the toddler pools, that these be drained after every use. It is never a good idea to leave standing water. This can develop algae and bacteria, and also will attract insects such as mosquitoes.

So, after each use, the pool should be emptied of water which can be done with a toddler pool over the sink in the kitchen or dumped on the back lawn. Another reason this is essential is that with standing water remaining in the pool, a child could go near the kiddie pool unattended which could be disastrous in its consequences.

q: Is it really necessary to drain the larger kiddie pools frequently especially in the hot summer months?

a:

It could seem like quite a task to drain a larger kiddie pool such as a few listed here after every use. Especially during the heat of summer, so these can be drained once a week, but no longer than that. Remember, unlike standard-size pools, kiddie pools, regardless of size, don’t have pumps or filters to remove bacteria or debris. Also, once the pool is drained it will be important to properly clean it.

q: How should a kiddie pool be cleaned?

a:

Each time the pool is properly drained, it should also be cleaned as well. With the small portable kind for toddlers, make sure that it is cleaned before deflating. Take a damp cloth and wipe the inside of the pool completely. Once this is done, take a bucket of cleaning solution which is one part bleach and five parts water then scrub down the pool to remove any spots of dirt.

Rinse off the pool, then let air dry, then deflate it if it is a small infant pool or refill it if is a larger-size kiddie pool. These are some basic guidelines and the best course of action is to do more research online about how to clean a kiddie pool properly.

q: Is there an easy way to find where an inflatable kids swimming pool is leaking?

a:

No doubt about it, leaks in inflatable pools can be a challenge, especially slow leaks. Even having a leak patch or a pool repair kit is only half the problem, the other half and most difficult can be finding where the leak is located. There are two methods that can be used to help determine where the leak is located. The first one is ideal for smaller kids swimming pools and that is fill a bathtub with water. Then, place the inflated kiddie pool into the tub and the area where the leak is located will start to form air bubbles.

Take note of the spot, remove the pool from the tub, dry if off, then place the patch securely over the leak. The method ideal for any size inflatable pool is to take an empty spray bottle, fill it half-way with water, then add a liquid-type soap. Spray this mixture onto the inflatable pool, then observe where the soap starts to create bubbles. This is where the leak is located.

Again, dry off the pool then patch it using a pool patch. If a pool patch isn’t available at the moment, then a small piece of duct tape can be used as a temporary solution until a permanent patch or pool repair kit can be obtained. The duct tape should never be considered a permanent solution because it doesn’t block the leak completely. Instructions on repairing a leak also will be on pool patch kits and also can be found online.

q: Should my child learn to swim and at what age is good to start teaching them?

a:

It is probably a very good idea to have your child learn to swim, especially if you are someone who has their own built-in pool or has friends who do. At the very least, a child should learn how to relax their body in the water and also let the water lift them while floating with the current, which is actually the first step in learning the swim. As for what age is recommended that a child learn, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, kids could start learning at the age of 4 and older.

However, there are some who feel that kids could learn as early a 6 months old while in the company of a parent holding them during the process. This would depend though on the child’s physical development and emotional as well. Keep in mind though that even in teaching a child at an early age to swim, supervision by a parent is always necessary to avoid any unforeseen accidents such as slipping.

Sources

  1. Leisure Pools Australia, 6 Important Benefits Swimming Pools Provide Kids,
  2. edmontonfetalalcoholnetwork, Benefits of Water Play for Children, Article
  3. PMB Webpages and Ben Powell, Kiddie Pool Care - Guide to Kiddie Swimming Pool Care, forum
  4. Barbara M. Soule, R.N. MPA, CIC, FSHEA , Safe Fun in the Kiddie Pool, Article
  5. Mayo Clinic Staff, Water safety: Protect your child from drowning, Informative Article