The hottest time of the year has arrived, and with it comes scorching temperatures and humidity that make summertime unbearable in some parts of the country.
You can always cool off in the pool or head to an air-conditioned building to escape the heat. But for many parents and children, those options aren’t always available or feasible. Fortunately, there’s another great way to beat the heat this summer—go outside and enjoy one of your local splash pads!
Advantages of splash pads
Children can burn up to 600 calories in 30 minutes of playing in splashpads. Splash pads increase exercise, learning, and safety for children of all ages. Water sprays are an excellent sensory toy because they provide tactile stimulation through drops of water hitting your skin.
Ways to spend time at a splash pad
Nothing beats a splash pad on a hot summer day. These watering holes are open year-round. So, you can visit them in any season! In the summer, they’re the best way to beat heat. In winter, they become our favorite places for cooling off indoors.
Reasons kids will love splash pads
When temperatures rise and days get longer, it’s only natural for kids (and their parents) to seek out ways to cool off. They can spend hours splashing about in water that never dips below 70 degrees—perfect for taking on a sunny summer day without worrying about chills.
Reasons adults will love splash pads
- Water fight! Adults love getting wet and messing around. In a splash pad environment, they can pelt their friends with water while cooling off in an air-conditioned facility.
- Speedster: Slides and waterfalls are super fun for children of all ages – but adults are way more coordinated than kids, which means they will have no problem dominating on slides and jetties – or just cooling off with some refreshingly cold fun.
Water, fun, and relaxation don’t need to be expensive!
Although some splash pads can get pretty pricey, many are also free! It’s also a great way for cities and towns to provide some quality family fun, especially in areas where public swimming pools can be challenging to come by. Many communities have splash pads set up as part of their city parks or public squares, meaning people don’t even need a dedicated spot; they can hop over whenever they have time.
Safety tips for splash pads
It’s summertime, and that means you may be looking for ways to keep your family cool. One way is by visiting a splash pad—those fun fountains that sprinkle refreshing water on hot kids. But there are safety tips you need to know before you set out on your adventure. First and foremost, watch your step: Children love running in these colorful playgrounds, but those little feet have no concept of slippery surfaces or what it feels like when they slide across the concrete. Parents should also consider staying with their children while they play: While splash pads generally go unsupervised, there will usually be at least one lifeguard present.