6.4.1.1: Pool Toys

Tricycles, wagons, and other non-water toys should not be permitted on the pool deck. Use of flotation devices such as inflatable items (e.g., water wings), kick boards, etc. should be prohibited. Use of properly fitted and age-appropriate life jackets according to the manufacturer’s instructions should be permitted with close supervision. All toys appropriate for water play should be removed from the pool after use so children are not tempted to reach for them.

RATIONALE

Playing with non-water toys, such as tricycles or wagons, on the pool deck may result in unintentional injuries or falls into the water. Reliance on flotation devices may give children false confidence in their ability to protect themselves in deep water. Flotation devices also may promote complacency in caregivers/teachers who believe the child is safe (1). Toys left near the pool may be tempting for a child who could reach for it and fall into the water.

TYPE OF FACILITY

Center, Early Head Start, Head Start, Large Family Child Care Home, Small Family Child Care Home

RELATED STANDARDS

6.3.1.5 Deck Surface

REFERENCES

1. American Academy of Pediatrics, Committee on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention. 2010. Policy statement: Prevention of drowning. Pediatrics 126:178-85.