Swimming pool games can make any pool day more enjoyable, especially when friends and family join in. Also, any type of swimming activity is beneficial for kids. They give an opportunity for kids of all ages to have physical exercise, social interaction, and learn important skills like teamwork and sportsmanship.
Looking for a game to play? Let’s explore the different categories of swimming pool games and find the next game to play with you and your friends!
Listed below are various types of games that can be played. Each type has varying levels of skill and competitive spirit. All games require knowing how to swim and having a basic understanding of pool safety!
Find your game below:
- Tag games: Players who are “it” must tag or catch others.
- Team games: Players work together in groups or teams.
- Contests: Players strive to outperform each other in a specific task or skill.
- Relay races: Players try to finish first in a race or complete tasks.
- Follow games: Players must follow instructions given by a designated leader
- Recreational games: Games with no competition, just about having fun!
Tag Games
Tag games are a classic and fun way to play in the pool. They are great introductory pool games to play.
They involve one player designated as “it” and others trying to avoid getting tagged or caught. These games can also be modified to make them more challenging or to accommodate different skill levels.
Skills learned: Kids learn important skills like agility, reflexes, and proper swimming techniques. These types of games also promote socialization, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Tag Games to Play
Team Games
Games are played with two or more teams competing against each other to win a round or complete certain tasks. These games promote a light-spirited competition that requires strategy and communication to win.
Skills learned: Games in a team environment require working together, constant talking to one another, and an overall strategy to win. They also encourage socialization and good sportsmanship.
Team Games to Play
Contests
Contests involve players competing against each other to achieve the best score or time for that particular game.
The objective is to perform the activity with the most skill or achieve the best score or time. The contests can be a fun way for kids to improve their swimming techniques and socialize with their friends
Skills learned: Contests can promote friendly competition and good sportsmanship over the course of each game. They can also promote creative thinking skills and improved swimming in the water.
Relay Races
Relay races are games where two or more teams compete to complete a swimming race or set of activities. The objective is to swim the fastest and complete the race first!
Skills learned: Kids can learn the importance of teamwork, communication, and cooperation. Relays can also improve swimming technique and endurance.
Relay Games to Play
Follow Games
Follow games require one person to lead the group in a specific activity or movement. These games can range from simple, easy-to-follow instructions to complex, multi-step challenges. They can also be modified to include obstacles or challenges that add an extra layer of excitement and difficulty to each game being played.
To succeed in these types of games, players must pay close attention to the leader’s instructions or move in unison with the group. This requires careful listening and coordination, which can help improve these skills over time.
Skills learned: Follow games can help kids improve their listening skills, and coordination, and learn how to follow directions.
Follow Games to Play
Recreational Games
Not every game is about winning! Recreational games are a great way to have fun and unwind but still offer an opportunity to engage in physical activity and socialize with others.
There’s no need to worry about rules or competition, allowing you to fully embrace the experience and enjoy the moment.
Skills learned: Recreational games are all about relaxation and socialization with friends and family.
Recreational Games to Play
Safety First
Safety should always be a top priority for any swimming pool game. While pools are meant to be fun, they can pose a significant risk of injury particularly for young children. An adult should always be present at all times to supervise and ensure that all safety measures are observed.
It’s important to ensure that all players have the appropriate swimming skills and abilities to participate in a particular game. Inexperienced swimmers should not be playing any game that requires being in the deep end or significant amounts of swimming. If they are in the water, they should always be wearing appropriate safety equipment like life jackets in order to play.
Adults should also ensure the pool area is free from hazards such as sharp objects or debris that could cause injury. By observing all these safety measures, you can ensure that swimming pool games remain a safe and fun activity for all participants.
Have Fun!
Ultimately, these pool games are meant to keep kids of all ages active and get them familiar with the water. Whether just playing with a small group of friends or a larger gathering, there is a game ready for you to enjoy.
So, find the game that is right for you and dive right in!