Throw a Pool Party!
By Toronto4Kids

Beat the heat this summer by throwing a spectacular pool party for your kids and their friends. Here are some great pool party pointers to host the “Bash of the Season”.

Invitations
Be fancy and send out “pool themed” invitations and toss in some fun confetti in the envelopes. If you want to save time, send invitations via email. There are many cool free “pool party” invites online.

Pool Necessities
Remind everyone to bring their swimsuits, flotation devices, towels, goggles, hats and sunscreen. Have a few extras on hand for those who forget! Make sure you have pool umbrellas and throw around some pillows and beach towels for added comfort!

Pool Toys and Decorating
Pool toys are important items for a summer pool party. Make sure you have a variety of toys that will please kids and adults. Squirt guns, swimming noodles, kick/flutter boards, and diving items such as rings are a must! A basketball hoop or volleyball net is always a good addition for guests of all ages. Keep pool distractions at a minimum (avoid too many toys in the pool). You want to be able to see all the children clearly! Focus on decorating just outside the pool border with balloons, streamers, beach balls, or go with a tropical luau theme.

Pool Party Foods and Drinks
Make sure your pool party theme is reflected throughout the day, including the cake, food and drinks. Have a poolside lunch: Grill burgers or hot dogs and serve with Goldfish crackers, fresh fruit salad. Find a recipe for a Pool Party Cake online.

Pool Party Favours
Goody bags for the children should be planned according to theme. Loot bags can include: beach towels, caps, sun hats, sun glasses, flip-flops – all great party favours. You can find cheap items at your dollar store. Scout out flip-flop key chains or even pool toys. Give out small tubes or travel size containers of sunscreen.

Safety
Invite parents too. The more eyes there are on the kids in the pool, the better. Consider booking a lifeguard – check with your city/town swimming services as many will offer lifeguard services for a reasonable fee. You can never be too safe!

And if you don’t own a pool, don’t despair! You can still throw a pool party! Consider renting out a pool. Yes, most city/town recreation centre rent pools at great rates for parties!

Dive in and enjoy your party, but most of all stay safe!