A backyard water party is a great idea for a summer event.
A kids' water party is a great way to beat the summer heat without being forced indoors. Although a party at the local public swimming pool or water park may be appropriate for smaller groups, it can be costly with a large number of guests. Additionally, you might have a harder time keeping track of all the kids in a public setting. If you have a large backyard, you can host the party at your home, with a variety of water-themed games and attractions. Does this Spark an idea?
Slip 'n' Slide
If you have a sloped area in your backyard, set up a slip 'n' slide for party guests. Although there are commercial products available, create your own inexpensive slip 'n' slide with tarp weighted down on the corners. Make sure the ground underneath is level; use sand to patch up any rough spots. Use a garden hose or sprinkler to keep the slide wet.
Squirt Gun and Water Balloon War
Ask each guest to bring his best squirt gun for a water-gun shootout. Divide guests into teams and have each team set up barracks, forts and obstacles. Then have each team hide a flag in their fort for the other team to retrieve. The first team to get to the other team's flag wins. Have a refilling station nearby for empty guns and be sure everyone has a full squirt-gun tank before you start the battle. For a water-balloon fight, set up the balloons beforehand and place them in bins, refilling as you go.
Swimming Games
A swimming pool opens up a wide variety of water-party game options. "Marco Polo" is one game that is appropriate for most age groups. One guest is 'it,' and while he goes underwater and counts to 10, the other kids scatter throughout the pool. When the 'it' guest resurfaces, he must keep his eyes covered and try to find the other guests by calling out "Marco!" The other kids reply with "Polo" and the first one tagged has to be 'it' next time. For older kids, a water volleyball or basketball game might be more age appropriate.
Sprinklers and Kiddie Pools
Backyard sprinklers and kiddie pools work well for younger children, particularly toddlers and kindergarten-aged kids. Set up a variety of sprinklers throughout the backyard and as many kiddie pools as you need. If you have a range of ages attending the party, you might set up a smaller kiddie pool for young toddlers and a larger, deeper one with a basketball net for older kids.
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