All the big mistakes to avoid at waterparks this summer – from simple slide accidents to forgotten ‘rules'

The Sun

4 days ago

AS WE enter the school summer holidays and warm temperatures continue across the country, knowing how to keep your children safe when at a waterpark is super important.
A family expert has warned parents about the common waterpark safety mistakes to make sure you don't get caught out by them.
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Not crossing your legs on the waterslide
Oliver Brendon, family travel expert and CEO of AttractionTickets.com, shared how crossing your legs on a waterslide is actually really important.
He said: "It might sound like a playground joke, but wedgies on waterslides can actually cause minor injuries.
"Children, and adults alike, can end up with painful grazes or cuts from not keeping their legs crossed properly on the way down."
Essentially, the speed and pressure of the water can hurt you and leave you feeling uncomfortable for the rest of the day.
"To avoid this, it only takes a few seconds to remind your child to cross their legs and hold that position, but it can make all the difference.
"It's one of those things you laugh about later, but it's definitely worth preventing in the first place," he added.
Don't skip a lost-child plan
Taking your children to a waterpark can be a super thrilling day out.
However, losing them can turn the day into a nightmare.
"With so many people around and lots going on, it's surprisingly easy for children to become separated from their parents at a pool or waterpark," said Oliver.
"To avoid it, I suggest families set a clear meeting point as soon as they arrive, somewhere easy to find and explain to kids.
I went to France to visit the world's best waterpark
"Tell your child that if they lose sight of you, they must go straight to that spot and stay there."
This should help reduce panic in the situation, Oliver claims, and it can help provide a calm and simple solution.
Don't delay the post-swim rinse
A post-swim rinse might be a thing of habit, but did you know this is something you should actually always do?
Oliver explained that any chlorine left on a child's skin can be really irritating, especially if your child has sensitive skin.
"A quick rinse at the showers near the pool is all it takes to avoid this and it makes a big difference," Oliver explained.
"It's a small step that can prevent itching and complaints later in the day."
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Picking the wrong swimsuit colours
There is a lot of research out there about the best colours for children to wear when swimming, but choosing the right colour can make a real impact.
Whilst blue and green tend to blend into the water, bright colours like pink and yellow, stand out more clearly.
Oliver commented: "As a parent, it gives you a bit of peace of mind knowing your child is easy to spot.
"It also really helps lifeguards if they ever need to scan a crowded area."
Not explaining water depth zones
Different children means different swimming abilities and with this it is important your child understands the depths of the pool you are visiting.
"What looks shallow to an adult can feel overwhelming to a child, especially if they're caught off guard," explained Oliver.
"Before letting kids loose, I always recommend walking them around the pool or pointing out the depth markers.
"Make it clear where the shallow and deeper areas are, and which zones are best for them.
"A two-minute chat can stop a panicked moment before it happens."
Assuming children remember how to swim from last year's swimming lessons
Some parents assume that their kid still knows how to swim, when they actually had their lessons over a year ago.
But in reality, children can forget and become less confident as more time passes where they haven't been swimming.
Oliver recommended "At the start of a waterpark day, it's worth having a quick refresher in a quieter area, even just getting them to practice kicking or floating.
"It boosts their confidence and gives you a better sense of what they can handle."
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Forgetting suncream reapplication
You might think the whole 'wear suncream' phrase has been drilled into your mind by now, but it remains crucial.
Often people will start the day by applying suncream and then they will not reapply for the rest of the day.
Oliver said: "Between the sun, water, and sweat, it wears off much quicker than people think.
"I always advise parents to reapply every 90 minutes and after water rides, even if it says 'water-resistant' on the bottle.
"It's a small effort that really pays off in preventing painful sunburn."
Overlooking hydration
Heading to a waterpark on a baking hot day may feel like the best way to cool down, but staying hydrated i s really important.
Oliver warned: "Dehydration can creep up on kids fast, especially in the sun, and headaches and crankiness are early warning signs you need to watch out for."
He also recommended carrying a refillable bottle for each child and making sure they take water breaks between each ride.
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Not checking height and health restrictions
If at a waterpark with numerous rides, it is important to remember there might be height and health restrictions.
"Ride restrictions aren't just there to be annoying, they're truly designed to keep everyone safe," Oliver shared.
"I've seen so many parents plead with ride attendants to let their child on something they're not quite ready for.
"It's not worth the risk. Always check height and health rules in advance and manage expectations early on."
He added that there are usually plenty of other attractions that are better suited and usually are just as fun.
Not tying up long hair
For children with long hair, remembering to tie it up can help keep them safe.
Oliver warned how loose hair can cover a child's eyes in the water, making it hard for them to see.
Or it could even get caught in features of the water park.
"A simple ponytail, bun, or swim cap keeps things safer and more comfortable, and saves time untangling it all later," Oliver concluded.
Top tips for flying with children
FLYING with young children can be stressful, but preparation is key to making the journey easier.
Before booking, consider using tools like Expert Flyer to gauge flight busyness, and choose your seats wisely.
Bulkhead seats offer space and bassinet access for babies, while the back of the plane is convenient for changing facilities.
When packing your carry-on, 'recreate home' by bringing familiar comfort items.
A mix of new and old toys, wrapped for surprise, can keep kids entertained.
Don't forget pyjamas and a spare change of clothes for accidents. Snacks are also essential.
To encourage sleep, consider booking night flights and tiring kids out at the airport.
Onboard, blankets can block light, and noise-cancelling headphones can help babies and toddlers with pressure changes. Lavender balm may also aid relaxation.
Remember to pack dummies or bottles for babies to help with ear pressure during take-off and landing.
Finally, don't hesitate to ask cabin crew for help. They can assist with entertaining children, provide essential supplies, and offer a much-needed break to parents.
A Place in the Sun's Laura Hamilton has also revealed her free travel hack to settle small kids on planes.
Plus, anyone with a child is urged to check outdated passport rule that could see you turned away from the airport.
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