Sensory Play at the Pool ideas to try with kids

Sensory Play at the Pool: 5 Easy Activities to Keep Little Ones Engaged

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Summer days by the pool are not only great for cooling off, but they also offer a fantastic opportunity for sensory play that supports toddler development. Here are five of our family-favorite easy-to-set-up activities to try during pool time that encourage exploration, fine motor skills and creativity, all while keeping little ones happily engaged and refreshed!

Sensory Play at the Pool: 5 Easy Activities to Keep Little Ones Engaged

Frozen Toy Ice Cubes

This one is always a hit! Freeze small toys (think animals, cars or plastic letters, or anything they’ll be excited to find) inside ice cube trays or plastic containers in fun shapes. Then let your toddler melt, chip or smash the ice to uncover the surprise inside. It’s a cool sensory experience that helps build patience, fine motor skills and curiosity.

Quick Prep Checklist:

  • Ice cube trays or small plastic containers
  • Small waterproof toys or objects
  • A shallow container or bowl to catch the melt

Sensory Play at the Pool

Pouring Stations

All you need are plastic cups, funnels and small containers. Set them up poolside or in a shallow tub and let your child pour, fill and splash to their heart’s content. It might seem simple, but this activity builds hand-eye coordination and teaches basic cause-and-effect.

Quick Prep Checklist:

  • Plastic measuring cups, bowls and pitchers
  • Funnels
  • Shallow tub, bucket or edge of the kiddie pool

Sensory play at the pool

Shaving Cream and Colors

This is my kids’ favorite! A little shaving cream and a few drops of washable paint or food coloring can keep them entertained for ages. They love pretending they’re making ice cream, mixing potions or cooking up wild recipes. It does get messy, which makes it even more fun — so I usually set this up near a pool shower or hose for easy cleanup.

Quick Prep Checklist:

  • Shaving cream (gentle, kid-safe formula)
  • Washable paint or food coloring
  • Plastic tray or containers

Sensory Play at the Pool: 5 Easy Activities to Keep Little Ones Engaged

Water Sensory Bins

Add natural elements like smooth pebbles, flower petals or floating leaves to a water-filled container. Kids love feeling the different textures and watching things float or sink. It’s calming and encourages open-ended play. I like to take a short nature walk beforehand and let the kids help collect materials.

Quick Prep Checklist:

  • Large plastic bowl, tub or bin
  • Nature finds: leaves, petals, rocks sticks
  • Optional: toy animals, boats or scoops

Sensory Play at the Pool: 5 Easy Activities to Keep Little Ones Engaged

Poolside Coloring Fun

Grab some washable sidewalk chalk or paint and let the kids get creative on the pool deck, porch or driveway. Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby for easy cleanup or let the pool shower do the trick. It’s a great way to wind down after water play and encourage artistic expression.

Quick Prep Checklist:

  • Washable sidewalk chalk or washable paint
  • Optional: paintbrushes or sponges

Learning Through Play

These playful activities aren’t just fun, they support your toddler’s sensory development, creativity and ability to focus. Toddlers are naturally drawn to messy, hands-on experiences, so instead of fighting the mess, let’s give them a safe space to explore, play and learn.

The best part? You don’t need fancy supplies or a lot of prep. Just a few simple items can turn your water day into a joyful, sensory-rich adventure full of learning, laughter and meaningful moments, for both your child and you.

 

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Originally published in the July 2025 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.