Water Safety Tips for Children

Summer is the perfect time for children to cool off in pools, splash pads, lakes, rivers, and

sprinklers. Water play encourages physical activity, builds confidence, and creates joyful memories. But even shallow water can pose serious risks for young children, making water safety one of the most important topics for families and early childhood providers during the summer months.

Whether you're spending the day at a community splash pad, planning a field trip, or simply enjoying time outdoors, taking a few simple precautions can help keep every child safe while they play.

Active Supervision Saves Lives

The most important water safety tool is attentive adult supervision. Young children can get into trouble quickly and quietly, even in just a few inches of water.

When children are near water:

• Stay within arm's reach of infants, toddlers, and young children.

• Designate a "Water Watcher" whose only responsibility is supervising children—avoid distractions like phones or conversations.

• Count children frequently, especially during transitions in and out of the water.

• Never assume another adult is watching.
  

For child care programs, maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios and assign supervision zones so every area of the water play space is covered.

Choose the Right Flotation Devices

If children are boating or swimming in lakes, rivers, or deep pools, they should wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Water wings, inflatable rings, and pool noodles can be fun toys, but they should never be relied upon as safety devices.

Children should also be encouraged to participate in age-appropriate swim lessons when available, while remembering that even children who know how to swim still require close supervision.

Stay Safe at Splash Pads

Splash pads are popular because there is no standing water, but they still require careful supervision.

Help children stay safe by:

• Walking instead of running on slippery surfaces.

• Wearing water shoes to prevent slips and protect feet.

• Taking bathroom breaks and encouraging handwashing before eating.

• Watching for signs of fatigue or overheating.
  

Providers should also inspect play areas for hazards and follow local health guidance regarding splash pad use.

Be Extra Cautious Around Natural Water

Lakes, rivers, and streams offer wonderful opportunities to connect with nature, but conditions can change quickly. Strong currents, uneven bottoms, cold water, and limited visibility make natural water more unpredictable than pools.

Before entering natural water:

• Check weather and water conditions.

• Keep children close to shore unless they're confident swimmers wearing life jackets.

• Never allow children to swim alone.

• Avoid diving into unfamiliar water.
  

Prevent Sun and Heat-Related Illness

Water play often means spending extended time outdoors. Protect children by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside and reapplying every two hours or after water play. Offer water frequently, schedule breaks in the shade, and dress children in lightweight clothing and wide-brimmed hats whenever possible.

Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including dizziness, excessive tiredness, nausea, or unusual irritability.

Prepare Before You Go

A little preparation goes a long way toward preventing emergencies.

Before heading out:

• Pack water, healthy snacks, sunscreen, hats, towels, and a basic first aid kit.

• Bring extra clothes and plenty of drinking water.

• Know the location of lifeguards, emergency phones, and first aid stations.

• Keep emergency contact information easily accessible.
  

Building Safe Summer Memories

Water play gives children opportunities to explore, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors with family, friends, and caregivers. By staying attentive, planning ahead, and teaching simple water safety habits, families and early childhood programs can help children build confidence around water while reducing the risk of injury.

Safe summer adventures begin with prepared adults. With thoughtful supervision and simple precautions, children can splash, play, and create joyful memories all season long.