Fun Pool Games to Enjoy This Summer with Your Kids

When the UAE summer turns up the heat, there’s no better way to cool off than by jumping into your backyard pool. But beyond the splash and giggles, pool time can become a bonding, fun-filled, and active experience with a few creative games.

In this blog, we’re diving into the most fun pool games for kids that are not only safe and exciting but also perfect for hot summer days in the UAE. Whether you’ve got a compact inflatable pool or a larger above-ground setup, these games will keep your little ones smiling all season long.

Why Pool Games Are Perfect for UAE Summers

1. Beat the Heat

With temperatures soaring past 40°C, pools become a must-have. Pool games make the experience more engaging, helping children stay active while staying cool.

2. Boosts Development

Many water games help improve kids’ motor skills, coordination, and problem-solving abilities, all while they’re having a blast.

3. Strengthen Family Bonds

Participating in games with your kids creates memorable moments and strengthens the parent-child connection during school breaks.

Top 10 Pool Games for Kids to Try This Summer

1. Treasure Hunt Underwater

What You Need: Waterproof dive rings, toys, or coins
How to Play: Drop the “treasures” into the pool and let kids dive to collect as many as they can. Add a timer for extra fun!

Benefits: Improves breath control and swimming confidence.

2. Ping Pong Madness

What You Need: A bunch of ping pong balls and a plastic bucket
How to Play: Scatter the balls across the pool. Kids race to collect as many as they can and drop them into the bucket.

Pro Tip: Use colored balls and assign point values for more competition!

3. Pool Noodle Joust

What You Need: Pool noodles and inflatable rafts or floaties
How to Play: Two kids sit on rafts and “joust” using noodles. The goal is to knock the opponent off balance—safely, of course!

Safety Tip: Always supervise and play in shallow waters.

4. Shark and Minnows

What You Need: Nothing!
How to Play: One child is the shark, and others are minnows. Minnows must swim from one end of the pool to the other without getting tagged.

Great For: Large families or neighborhood pool parties.

5. Ring Toss – Pool Edition

What You Need: Inflatable ring toss set
How to Play: Take turns throwing the rings at the target in the pool.. Assign different scores to each ring.

Buy at MyTS Store: Check out colorful and safe floating ring toss kits in our pool accessories section.

6. Floatie Race

What You Need: Floaties or inflatables
How to Play: Kids race across the pool using only floaties—no arms or legs allowed! It’s hilarious and entertaining for all.

7. Duck Push

What You Need: Rubber duckies or small floating toys
How to Play: Kids must push their duck from one end to the other using only their nose.

Laugh Level: 100%!

8. Octopus Tag

What You Need: Nothing but swimmers
How to Play: One child is the "octopus" and tries to tag others. When tagged, they join hands with the octopus, forming a longer chain.

Keeps everyone moving and giggling.

9. Obstacle Course

What You Need: Pool noodles, floaties, hula hoops, and other floating toys
How to Play: Set up a fun water obstacle course that kids must navigate as fast as they can. Time their performance for added challenge.

10. Sponge Splash War

What You Need: Large sponges and buckets of water
How to Play: While still in the pool or poolside, kids soak their sponges and have a splash war! A fun water balloon alternative with no cleanup.

Safety Tips for Pool Play in the UAE

While pool games are fun, safety is always the top priority:

• Always supervise children around water, no matter the depth
  
  

• Use floatation devices for young or non-confident swimmers
  
  

• Apply sunscreen generously to prevent sunburn
  
  

• Keep plenty of drinking water nearby to stay hydrated
  
  

• Take regular breaks under shaded areas or umbrellas
  
  

Final Thoughts: Create Cool Memories This Summer

Summer in the UAE is intense—but with the right games and gear, your pool can turn into a private waterpark full of laughter, learning, and connection.

Whether your goal is to keep the kids busy or bring the whole family together, these pool games will help you make the most of your summer—right in your own backyard.