Amanda PhillipsIf you’re planning to visit a sun-drenched destination with your little ones, chances are you’ll be looking to spend some time cooling off in the water. That water may be found on a sandy beach, a pool within the hotel or at one of the water parks regularly found at resorts favoured by those seeking the sun. Visiting a water park with your mini-humans can be fun and transport you back to your own childhood, but it can also be a bit stressful as you prepare for possible tantrums and sunburn. To limit the stress here are our top do’s and don’ts for visiting a water park with your kids, whether it’s in Tenerife or Costa Dorado.
Do…remember plenty of sun cream
If you’re in a sunny destination, sun cream is always essential. As a precaution, it should always be re-applied throughout the day even more so if hitting the beach or a water park. Keep an eye out for any signs of sunburn and reapply to your kids regularly.
Do…consider the swimming ability of your children
Just like any other type of park, water parks come with height and age restrictions. In place for safety, these heights and ages are designed to match up with average swimming ability. In the real world, however, your kid’s swimming ability may be different from what the water park had in mind when they said ‘ages 7 and up’. Have a proper look at the slides on offer before you go and be prepared that there are some slides your kids can’t yet go on.
Do…consider visiting a smaller water park
Okay, your kids will probably have strong opinions on which water park they’d like to visit but remember that lesser-known water parks can provide just as much fun for a smaller ticket price. Most sunshine destinations will have a well-known water park with a price tag plus a few smaller ones dotted around.
Don’t…dress as if you’re going to the beach
The bathing suit your kids wear to paddle in the back garden and the one they wear to run up and down water slides might need to be two different items. While we’re not suggesting you buy a wet suit for your kids purchase something that covers them from the sun, nothing that could come undone easily or anything with frills that could snag. Also, pack a waterproof belt bag as opposed to a beach bag, and include a t-shirt to throw over your kids.
Don’t…assume all water parks are aimed at children
While most water parks were designed with the family holiday in mind, some will have more child-friendly attractions than others. Research beforehand the child-friendliness of the rides and whether the resort is aimed at families, or groups of young friends on holiday.
Don’t…forget to pack your rucksack
While you can rent goggles and towels, and buy your lunch, these items don’t come cheap when bought on site. Most water parks will allow you to bring your own towels and other swimwear, plus a few snacks allowing you to save some pennies.