No Pool, No Problem: 7 Easy Water Games For Kids

Calvin and Hobbes, Bill Watterson

Covid-19 has beaches, public pools and splash pads across Los Angeles closed. As a parent you may be thinking, "Dammit, what are we supposed to do on this 90 degree day?" Especially if you're not among the lucky few who have a backyard with a pool.

As a fellow member of the unlucky majority, I thought I'd lend a hand by compiling a list of ways to play with water without a pool, or even a yard for that matter, and I hope your groms and kooks enjoy it. Even better if they enjoy it in a pair of Hammajang Boardshorts.

1. Water balloon fight: With THE best water balloons. Fill them all up at once, epic fun begins in under a minute.

2. Make your own sprinkler: All you need is a hose and empty liter bottle.

3. Kids car wash: Sure, your car will be covered in water spots but kids love to feel helpful, especially when it involves water. Also a great way to practice Hammajang.

4. Freeze your kids mini toys: Take an ice cube tray or some cups and have them put mini figure toys, legos, etc. inside. Then fill with water and freeze over night. The next day they can excavate their toys with rolling pins or by smashing them on the ground. That's 20 minutes you could sit in a chair and do nothing, ahhhh.

5. Tarp Surfing: Since the waves are closed for now, make your own waves at home with tarp surfing. All you need is a skateboard, tarp and your own personal Poseidon (aka a Dad working the tarp magic). Yeah, I know it doesn't involve real water, but it's water inspired. 

6. Pool Fishing: Fill up a blow up pool. Grab a fishing pole or tie some string to a stick and attach some sort of a hook (we used a picture hanging hook). Tie some string loops around toys and have your kids "fish" them out. It takes them a long time = more chair sitting for you.

7. Inflatable pool jumping contest: Write the numbers 1-10 each on a different sheet of paper. Tell your kid you'll rate the different jumps they come up with into the inflatable pool. Commence more chair sitting and hold up numbers.