Everyday Etiquette: 14 Tips for Swimming Pool Parties

9. Don’t allow children to eat or chew gum in the pool. That is what the tables beside the pool are for.

10. Children should never jump on top of someone else or hold someone else underwater, just to be funny.

11. Make sure there are always “designated eyes” on the swimmers at all times. Hosts should be conscientious about the ratio of children to adults providing the supervision.

12. Have alternate activities, in case kids get tired of swimming, and a shaded area for those that want to get out of the sun.

13. Have water on hand (not in glass containers) for children to drink at will.

14. If your child is invited to a pool party, don’t be embarrassed to ask the host parent how many adults will be there, who will be supervising the swimmers, whether there are flotation devices on hand and anything else you want to know. When it comes to your child’s safety, no question is off limits.

Diane Gottsman is an etiquette and protocol expert who leads programs for children and adults. 

MORE: Everyday Etiquette Archive.