Image: MomJunction Design Team
For children, pool time could be either challenging or exciting. Whatever the case, having the best pool toys for kids around would let your children have a gala time. Pool toys could be floating animals, balls, spray guns, and more.
Heather Welch, a mom, play advocate, educator, and developer of educational toys, says, “Often, children can be afraid of water. In such situations, pool toys can lure them into entering the pool. These toys can help children practice their swimming skills, develop their gross motor skills, boost their confidence, and empower them.” She adds, “Ensure the toys are age-appropriate and always supervise them when playing in the pool.”
In this post, we have rounded up some fun pool toys with kid-friendly designs by trusted brands to help you make the right pick.
Top Picks
What To Look For In A Pool Toy For Kids?
Here is a checklist of points that you should consider while buying a good pool toy for your kid.
Safety: Whether it is a toy, snack, or pretty dress, anything you shop for your kids needs to be completely safe. While playing with a pool toy, little kids are likely to put it in their mouths, which can have unpleasant consequences. To avoid such instances, buy toys that are non-toxic, BPA-free, and devoid of any harmful components. These toys should be waterproof and slip-proof.
Age: Pool toy manufacturers always mention the kids’ age limit on the package. This little detail helps to determine if the toy is suitable for your child. Choose only those toys that are suitable for your child’s age group.
Now that you know what to look for in a pool toy, have a look at some of the best pool toys available in the market. These waterproof toys are created for water games and are loved by little kids.
13 Best Pool Toys For Kids
1. Best For Dribbling: Watermelon Ball – The Ultimate Swimming Pool Game
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 6,465 reviews on Amazon, this product is a winner.
Watermelon ball is an ideal swimming pool toy for kids who love to dip and dive. Unlike a regular inflatable pool toy, this ball is filled with water. It can be dribbled like a football under the water. It initially sinks and then rises slowly and floats on the surface. It is great to play with family or friends. This review cum testing video can help you make an informed decision.
Age: 8 years and above
Pros
- Durable
- Made of PVC
- Simple to fill and play
- Can be passed up to 10ft underwater
Cons
- May not roll smoothly over the water
- Slightly heavy for young kids
"My kids loved this exciting water toy during their pool sessions. It did require a bit of trial and error to determine the optimal water level for the right balance of bounce and float. The impressive part is that the ball has maintained its integrity even after enduring relentless rough play."
2. Best Racing Game: Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Spark Shark Fish Hunt
This is a racing game by the trusted brand Melissa & Doug that kids enjoy playing in the pool. It contains two shark nets and six fish-shaped sinkers. The sinkers gradually drop deeper into the pool so your kids need to be fast to net them.
Age: 6 to 8 years
Pros
- Helps improve hand-eye coordination
- Enhances gross motor skills
- Can be played by single and double players
- Colorful sinkers are easy to spot in a pool
Cons
- Sinkers tend to fall out of the net, thereby frustrating kids
"My kids adore this shark toy, especially in the pool or bathtub. They stay engaged with the slow-sinking fish and the 'gobbling up the fish' game. It's a delightful challenge for the kids to catch them with the help of the netted sharks. I appreciate its well-thought-out design, although its long-term durability is yet to be tested."
3. Best For Exploration: Under Water Treasures Gift Set Bundle
When your kids know swimming but need some motivation to dive deeper into the pool, an underwater game could help. This safety-tested package contains water play toys such as diving pool rings, water torpedo bandits, diving sticks, and pirate treasures that need to be retrieved from under the water.
Age: 6 years and above
Pros
- Made of non-toxic material
- Easy to grab
- Easy to spot underwater
- Can be played in a hot tub too
Cons
- Actual toys may be smaller than those shown in the image
"My little ones relish diving into the pool in search of the toy treasures that come with this pool toy set. It's surprisingly durable, and I expect it to last for years. Even my youngest child, a timid swimmer, found an incentive in these toys, making swimming lessons more comfortable. It's a versatile set, offering multiple game options, all neatly packed in a decent bag."
Do remember4. Best Adjustable :SwimWays Fish Styx Pool Diving Toys – Sinking Fish-Shaped Swim Toys
Ever tried grabbing a live fish in a pond? Grabbing the slimy creature with bare hands requires quick reflexes and alertness. Your kids can experience something similar in the pool with these little toy fishes. Let them dive under the water to grab these colorful fishes.
Age: 5 years and above
Pros
- Encourages underwater swimming
- Flexible rubber body
- Does not require batteries
Cons
- Breaks easily
"While not as satisfyingly heavy as they should be, these small wiggling and jiggling fish toys offer a wonderful way to bond with my kids at the swimming pool. They're fun, encourage the little ones to practice their swimming techniques, and hold up well during playtime. They are a hit with everyone in my family, ages 6 to 65!"
5. Best Ball Game: Go Sports Splash Hoop 360 Floating Pool Basketball Game
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 4,717 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
Scoring a basket is no easy feat, and scoring one in water is all the more difficult. Let your kids enjoy their pool time trying to score a slam dunk in water with this floating toy. Check out this detailed review/ testing video that can help you learn more about the product.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
- Water basketballs come with anti-slip grip
- Comes with a splash hoop, two water basketballs, and an air pump
Cons
- Expensive
- Lacks durability
"My entire family, from my youngest child to my husband, thoroughly enjoys this product. While it's lightweight and not overly sturdy, it still provides for fun basketball sessions in the pool. The pump to inflate the balls is a convenient addition. I certainly recommend this product, despite its minor flaws."
6. Best Non-Toxic: Henmi 26 Pack Diving Toy For Pool Use Underwater Swimming/Diving Pool Toy Rings
If you want your children to push their limits and try underwater diving, why not create a new water world for them? This 26-piece set of underwater toys comes with fish, diving rings, and treasures for kids to explore and collect underwater for hours of entertainment.
Age: 3 years and above
Pros
- Made of non-toxic ABS material
- Ideal for an underwater treasure hunt
- Helps improve swimming skills
- Attractive, bright colors make toys easy to find in the water
Cons
- Does not come with a storage bag
- Color may bleed from some pieces
Do remember7. Best For Hand-Eye Coordination: Max Liquidator 6-Pack Water Blaster Set
It is always exciting to play with water blasters. Aiming and shooting someone with water improves hand-eye coordination. A water war in the pool means an incessant supply of water and hours of fun. This water blaster comes covered with foam for the additional safety of kids.
Age: 6 years and above
Pros
- Lightweight
- Blasts water up to 30ft
- Foam floats in water
- Available in a variety of colors
Cons
- Small size may be disappointing
8. Best Pilot Game: Intex Water Gun Plane Ride-On
Your child may have a ride-on car or bike, but do they have a ride-on plane? Well, they can have one now. This plane floats on water and comes with a water gun for your little air force pilot to shoot and play with, making it one of the favorite pool toys for kids.
Age: 3 years and above
Pros
- Attractive and durable design
- Safe and sturdy
- Contains repair patch
Cons
- Water gun lacks durability
- Color may fade after every use
9. Best Card Game: Swim Ways Finding Dory Shell Race Dive Game
This is a card game with a twist. It comes with shells containing images of the two teams of Dory and Nemo. It is a two-player game wherein each player has to find their respective shells in the shortest possible time. Each shell sinks at a different speed, so your child will have to beat it to collect all in time.
Age: 5 years and above
Pros
- Suitable for a pool as well as bathtub play
- Shells are sturdy
- Colors do not fade
Cons
- The small size of the toys can be slightly disappointing
10. Best Treasure Hunt: Swimline Shipwreck Dive Pool Game
Now here is a chance for your little one to become a treasure hunter. The ship breaks into two when placed in water, dispensing the treasures hidden within it. Your child has to dive into the water and collect all the treasures.
Age: 4 years and above
Pros
- Different sizes of treasures increase difficulty levels
- Encourages kids to hone swimming skills
- Can be used to play in a bathtub too
- Made of sturdy and durable plastic
Cons
- Sometimes the ship does not stay afloat and breaks open instantly
11. Best Speed-Riding Game: Intex Wave Rider Ride-On
Does your child fancy riding a cool jet ski? If yes, this ride-on is excellent for your kid to have a great time in the pool. It comes with a wide base, so your child has a safe and stable ride on water.
Age: 3 years and above
Pros
- Attractive and fun design
- Features a grab handle for safety
- Perfect size for little kids
- Made of durable material
Cons
- The color bleeds easily
12. Best Game For Swimmers: Aqua Mini Stingray Underwater Gliders
This is a unique racing game wherein two underwater gliders race while your kids ensure that their racer reaches the finish line first. It is a challenging game that only kids fully comfortable underwater can play.
Age: 5 years and above
Pros
- Self-propelled gliders travel up to 40ft
- Can perform a few tricks underwater
- Adjustable wings enable you to create your own pattern
- Water toys for pools
Cons
- Easily breakable
- Suitable for excellent swimmers only
13. Best Diving Game: Water Sports Swim Thru Rings
Swim-through rings are popular with kids practicing underwater diving. The swim rings can help to maintain direction and increase the time they can stay underwater.
Age: 8 years and above
Pros
- Easy to twist and store
- Does not require any assembling
- Inflatable chambers come with cute images
- Pack comes with three colorful rings
Cons
- The metal ring inside the plastic covering tends to rust over time
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do splash balls float?
Yes, most of the splash balls float. They also bounce a little as they are made of soft fabric.
2. What can I use as pool toys?
Pool noodles, fish toys, and water bombs are some of the classic pool toys. However, never leave your pool toys in the pool, as constant exposure to water and sun can damage them.
3. How do I disinfect pool toys?
You can use bleach water or a mixture of white vinegar and water to disinfect your pool toys. Make it a point to clean each part carefully, rinse well, and allow the toys to dry completely.
4. Where should I store inflatable pool toys?
You can store your inflatable pool toys in a ventilated area, away from sunlight or moist areas. Ensure the toys are dried completely to prevent mold.
5. How do I organize my pool toys?
You can use mesh storage bags or dedicated storage boxes to organize your pool toys. If you have inflatable pool toys, make sure that you are not storing them around sharp objects.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Priti Bose is a product writer focusing on toys and gifts. Using her product analysis and reviewing skills, she has scoured numerous websites to bring you this list of the best pool toys to add to your kid’s pool toy collection. These toys will make your child’s pool time more fun and keep them engaged for longer. In addition, she has included a buying guide and highlighted the pros and cons of each product to help you pick the right one for your children.
The Bottom Line
There’s no better way to beat the summer heat than hitting the pool and splashing around. The best pool toys for kids can further enhance this experience for your children, allowing them to have tons of fun with friends and family. You can choose from many exciting toys, such as pool balls, water balloons, water blasters, water squirters, and pool floats. Our best picks include The Watermelon Ball for endless family fun, the Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Spark Shark Fish Hunt for improving hand-eye coordination, and the Joyin UnderWater Treasure Gift Set for improving swimming skills. However, before making your pick, prioritize safety and pick non-toxic, BPA-free, waterproof, and slip-proof toys made with high-quality materials. Also, choose age-appropriate toys that are not too complicated.
Infographic: What Are The Various Kinds Of Pool Toys For Children?
Dive into a world of endless fun and excitement with vibrant and diverse pool toys, specifically designed for children. These toys instantly transform any pool into a captivating playground for young adventurers. Understanding the various categories can help you make an informed choice. Refer to the infographic below to explore the different types of pool toys for children.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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