Swim Party

Swim Party Fun

Having a party is a lot of fun, but having a swim party can boost your event to a whole new level of excitement.

For Kids

Few children will turn down a chance to attend a pool party. Birthdays, sweet sixteens, quincenarias, bar/bat mitzvahs, and any other number of special occasions can be turned into an opportunity for swimming fun.

For Adults

Adults will equally enjoy adding swimming to the agenda at their next barbecue, anniversary, baby/bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, etc.

Professional Swim Parties

Your local YMCA, or JCC associations are a great place to hold a swim party, and most of these facilities offer complete party packages that generally consist of the following elements.

• Reservations are usually required several weeks in advance, and are secured with a deposit.
• The balance of any charges must be paid prior to the actual party taking place.
• There will be a set price for a minimum number of guests, but more guests can usually be added for an extra fee.
• Swim times will normally take place during the facility's established free swim sessions under the watchful eyes of certified lifeguards, although adults are often encouraged to attend with children.
• After swimming is over, guests will hit the locker rooms to change and then move to a private room for cake, presents, and any other activities that can be fit into the time slot.
• Proper cancellation notice will be required, or you may loose your deposit.

Plan Your Own Swim Party

If you preferred a less regimented atmosphere, planning your own private swim party may be a better idea.

Locations

Popular locations for your party might include:

• Lakeside at a state park
• Oceanside beaches
• Your YMCA, or other community centers with a pool
• Your own backyard pool, or one that belongs to friends or family

Invitation Ideas

Creating your own swim party invitations is easier than you think. Here's a fun idea.

1. Create the invitation wording using your computer/printer. Trim out in preparation for gluing later.
2. Cut out beach towel shapes from scrap booking paper in fun prints.
3. Create a sandy beach using sand paper.
4. Add a sun shape, and any other embellishments you'd like.
5. Arrange and glue everything onto pre-sized card stock kits that come with their own envelopes.

Games

For some organized water fun, why not play some games such as:

• Marco Polo
• Water or beach volley ball

If you're lucky enough to have your party at the beach, you can indulge in other fun activities such as:

• Tubing
• Jet skiing
• Building sand castles
• Limbo

Whatever you do, be sure to follow all appropriate safety regulations and guidelines.

Party Favors

Items like flip flops, and beach towels make fun and useful party favors your guests are bound to appreciate.

Don't Forget Safety!

No matter where you have a swim party, or what age group is involved, safety has to be your first concern.

• It's always best to have a certified life guard on hand, even if you have to hire one for a private event.
• If you can't get a life guard, make sure you have several strong adult swimmers on hand to help you keep an eye on everyone.
• You should also make sure someone certified in CPR is in attendance, although a professional life guard would cover this requirement.
• Have enough U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets on hand for weaker swimmers.
• Do not allow running around indoor and in ground pools, as slippery surfaces can lead to nasty spills, and accidently falling into the water.
• Do not allow jumping or diving in shallow depths.
• Do not allow horseplay on diving boards and water slides.
• Wait thirty minutes after eating before swimming.

Conclusion

Swim parties can be fabulous events, just make sure to keep safety a priority. You'll also want to have plenty of back-up activities, both for your non-swimming guests and in the event of inclement weather. This way everyone is sure to have a good time!

External Links

• BoatU.S. Foundation, operates a life jacket loaner program.
• YMCA, find your local chapter to inquire about swim party packages.
• Oriental Trading Company, a great source for inexpensive beach party supplies, and toys.
• LoveToKnow Crafts.com,a great place to get more invitation, and party craft activity ideas.