The process of opening a pool usually involves a bunch of chores, from cleaning the cover and the surrounding deck to treating the water. Inspecting the filter and pump should only be done by an adult, but teens and kids who know how to stay safe by the pool can help with the process, too. You can make opening your pool for the summer a little more fun for the whole family by putting a creative spin on these tasks.
Turn Looking for Leaks Into a Scavenger Hunt
Checking over tiles can be tedious, but it’s a necessary chore to avoid injuries. It’s very easy to accidentally brush your arm against a broken tile, and jagged edges can cause scrapes.
Additionally, leaking liners can lead to huge problems. If both the liner and the pool structure are cracked, water can make its way out of the structure and destabilize the soil, wasting water and money.
Give your kids a list of areas that need checking for leaks, such as along the bottom or around pool lights. Have everyone look for damage in these sections with the goal of receiving a small prize or treat every time they find legitimate damage. An adult can serve as a judge, deciding what is and isn’t damaged.
Have a Pool Cover Removal Contest
If you have a non-motorized, sheet-style cover, line up three people along the long side of the pool, one at each corner and one in the middle. Have them grab the cover and try to pull as much of it back as they can for about five to 10 seconds or so. See who was able to move the cover the farthest, and give that person a small prize.
Create Decorative Signs for Pool Rules
Younger kids can get in on the fun with this activity that also emphasizes pool safety. Buy some heavy paper for signs, and get some crayons, finger paints, stickers, and adhesive tape. Kids can write in the rules and decorate the borders of the signs, and you can display them near the pool.
Enjoy a Fun Start to Swim Season
Top off the pool opening with a pool party for family and friends, complete with a barbecue and an awards ceremony for the participants. Opening a pool for the season can turn into a fun tradition each year as you add more games to the process. Your family will start looking forward to it! You can always have a pool company do the initial cleaning and inspection, but do try to get family, housemates, or friends involved. Making this into a social event is a nice way to start off the swimming season. When you need pool opening services in Vineland, NJ, contact Landi Pool Service.
