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Ultimate Kids' Pool Party Birthday Guide

1. Age Group and Guest Count

• Ideal age range: 6-12 years old (ensures most kids can swim)
• Recommended guest count: 10-15 kids (manageable for supervision)
• Required: 1 adult supervisor per 5 children

2. Timing and Duration

• Best seasons: Summer months (June-August)
• Ideal party duration: 2-3 hours
• Best time slots:
  • 11 AM - 2 PM (lunch party)
  • 2 PM - 5 PM (afternoon party)
• Note: Avoid right after meals (30-minute waiting period before swimming).

3. Pool Rental Information

• Average pool rental cost: $200-400 for 2-3 hours
• Additional costs to consider:
  • Lifeguard services ($25-35 per hour, usually required)
  • Insurance/liability waiver (varies by venue)
  • Private pool rental platforms like Swimply available

4. Per-Person Pricing Structure (Similar to Chuck E. Cheese model)

Basic Package ($20-25 per child):

• Pool access
• Basic decorations
• Pizza and drinks
• Party favor bag

Premium Package ($30-35 per child):

• Everything in basic package
• Professional party host
• Additional activities/games
• Premium decorations
• Ice cream or cake
• Enhanced party favors

5. Food and Refreshments

• Pizza delivery timing: 45 minutes into the party
• Recommended portions:
  • 2-3 slices per child
  • 1 large pizza per 4-5 kids
• Drinks: Water, juice boxes
• Snacks: Individual bags of chips, fruit platters
• Birthday cake: Serve during the last 30 minutes.

6. Decorations

Theme ideas:

• Under the sea
• Tropical paradise
• Beach party
• Mermaid/shark adventure

Decoration checklist:

• Balloon arch ($30-50)
• Table covers ($10-15)
• Banner ($15-20)
• Pool floats/toys ($50-75)
• Party plates/cups/napkins ($25)

7. Invitations

Send 2-3 weeks in advance, including:

• Date, time, location
• Swimming ability requirements
• What to bring (swimsuit, towel, sunscreen)
• RSVP deadline
• Parent contact information
• Liability waiver

8. Timeline Template

Pre-party:

• Setup decorations (1 hour before)
• Prepare check-in area
• Set up food/drink station

During party:

• 00:00 - Guest arrival/check-in
• 00:15 - Welcome games
• 00:30 - Pool time begins
• 01:15 - Pizza time
• 01:45 - More pool time
• 02:15 - Cake and presents
• 02:45 - Party wrap-up

9. Safety Measures

• Certified lifeguard on duty
• Pool rules clearly posted
• First aid kit available
• Emergency contact list
• Swim ability wristbands
• Proper adult supervision ratio

10. Additional Tips for Success

• Create a playlist of kid-friendly music
• Have backup indoor space in case of weather issues
• Prepare pool games (diving for coins, relay races)
• Take photos throughout
• Have extra towels on hand
• Provide sunscreen station
• Consider goody bags with pool-themed items

11. Cost-Saving Tips

• Book during off-peak hours
• DIY decorations
• Bulk order party supplies
• Share costs with another family (double birthday)
• Make your own snack platters
• Use digital invitations