In our first article, we talked about the importance of including a shallow end for the kids to play in your backyard pool. There are a few other features that relate to pool depth that can help your younger children get used to the water in a safe environment. In this article, we’ll look at the advantages of adding a tanning ledge as well as including steps in your family-friendly swimming pool.
Add a Tanning Ledge for relaxation
A tanning ledge, also known as a sitting ledge, is a small shelf that’s a couple of feet below the surface of the water. You can use it for setting a chaise lounge down inside the pool or just as a place to sit and relax inside the pool. For little ones who are just learning how to swim, this sitting ledge is just the place for them to rest for a while when they get tired. It’s also a convenient place to climb into or out of the pool.
You can put a tanning ledge along any of your pool’s walls. You could even have one that runs around the entire pool interior. They’re especially helpful if you choose to have a deep end where a child may want a place to stop and catch their breath for a while. They’re also a wonderful place for adults who are watching kids or holding babies and toddlers in the water to sit comfortably in the water.
Include a Staircase With Wide Steps
Getting into and out of the water can be challenging for small children with short legs who aren’t strong swimmers. If you add a staircase with extra-wide steps to your pool, you’ll allow your little ones more time to get used to the water than you would with narrow steps. When they’re first learning how to swim, your kids may even choose to spend more time on the steps kicking and paddling than they do swimming. It’s a great place to ease them through any fear they may have of the water. Parents can lounge on these wide steps in much the same way that they would a tanning ledge. Tiny tots can start out being held by a parent who is sitting on the step, then gradually start to venture out into the shallow end on their own.
Install Ladders in Several Locations
Along with your staircase, you’ll probably want to install a few ladders along the edges of your pool. Adding at least one ladder on either side would be a good idea, especially if you have a larger swimming pool. That way kids who get tired and want a quick way out of the pool won’t have to try to pull themselves out when they’re already exhausted from swimming. This is an especially important feature if you choose to have a deep end. Just make sure to keep a close eye on any little ones who may be tempted to climb down a ladder and end up in water that’s over their heads.
In our next article, we’ll take a look at pool flooring and pavement options.
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