Making a Splash at Veterans Memorial Pool & Waterslide Park

When summer heat hits Salt Lake City, there's nothing quite like the joy of watching a preschooler discover the magic of a community pool for the first time. Veterans Memorial Pool & Waterslide Park offers the perfect blend of excitement and safety for little ones—it's a place where your child can cool off, build water confidence, and create memories with minimal stress on your wallet. Whether your toddler is just dipping their toes in or your kindergartener is ready to conquer the shallow waterslide, this local gem provides hours of splashing fun without requiring expensive memberships or trips out of town. The combination of dedicated shallow areas, manageable crowds (when you time it right), and affordable admission makes it an ideal summer destination for families with young children.

What You'll Need

• Two swimsuits — one for your child and a quick-dry option for yourself. Preschoolers feel more comfortable when a parent is in or near the water, so plan to get wet too.
• Floaties and swim aids — water wings, puddle jumpers, or a kickboard help build confidence. Check the park's flotation device policy ahead of time.
• Waterproof diaper or swim diaper — essential for any child not fully potty trained, and required by most pools.
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) — apply generously 15 minutes before arriving, and reapply every 2 hours or after water play. Stick versions are easier for wiggly kids.
• Shade option — a pop-up beach tent, beach umbrella, or large beach towel to create a rest spot. Young children overheat quickly.
• Snacks and water bottles — pack non-perishable options like crackers, fruit, or granola bars. Bring at least two refillable water bottles.
• Change of clothes and extra diapers — store these in a waterproof bag at your shaded area.
• Flip-flops or water shoes — pool decks get hot, and water shoes protect little feet from rough surfaces.

How to Do It

1. Check hours, admission prices, and water temperature beforehand. Call ahead or check the Salt Lake City Parks & Recreation website to confirm current hours, admission costs, and any special programs for young swimmers. Weekday mornings during the school year tend to be less crowded, which is ideal for preschoolers. If the water temperature is below 82 degrees, your little one may find it uncomfortably cold, so ask about heated shallow areas.

2. Arrive early and set up your base camp. Get there 15-20 minutes after opening to secure a good shaded spot without overwhelming crowds. Set up your umbrella or tent near the shallow end, arrange your belongings in one organized spot, and change into swimsuits while your child is calm and ready. This gives you time to acclimate before the park fills up.

3. Start in the shallow water and let your child lead the exploration. Wade into the designated shallow area together, keeping your child between you and the wall of the pool. Let them splash, jump, sit down, and get used to the water at their own pace—don't force submersion or skill practice. Your calm, encouraging presence is the greatest gift you can offer.

4. Play simple water games to build confidence and comfort. Try games like "kick the water," "walk like a crab," "jumping jacks," or "water tag" to keep things fun and skill-building. Sing songs while moving through the water, practice floating with your support, or simply chase bubbles. Keep sessions short—15-20 minutes is often ideal for toddlers before they need a break.

5. Take breaks in your shaded area and watch for signs of fatigue or cold. Preschoolers can't tell you when they're getting tired or cold, so watch for shivering, loss of interest, or clinginess. Wrap them in a towel, offer a snack and water, and let them rest for at least 10-15 minutes before returning to the water. One good two-hour visit beats multiple short, stressful trips.

6. Explore the waterslide area when your child shows interest. If your child is 4 or older and comfortable in water, the shallow waterslide can be thrilling. Always supervise from the bottom, catch them as they exit, and let them decide how many times to go. Never force a hesitant child—water slides should feel like a fun choice, not a daring challenge.

7. End the visit on a positive note while your child still wants more. Leave while your child is happy and engaged, not exhausted and crying. This creates a positive association with the pool and makes them excited to return next time.

🎓 Skills Your Child Will Develop

Water Safety Awareness — Spending time in and around water helps preschoolers understand boundaries and respect for aquatic environments. Regular pool visits establish comfort with water while reinforcing the importance of always having adult supervision.

Physical Confidence and Body Control — Splashing, jumping, and moving through water strengthens muscles and coordination while building gross motor skills. The weightlessness of water allows children to try movements they might hesitate to attempt on land.

Social and Emotional Resilience — Facing mild challenges (like water on the face or trying something new) and celebrating small victories builds courage and self-esteem. Preschoolers learn that being brave doesn't mean never feeling scared—it means trying anyway.

Sensory Integration — Water play engages multiple senses simultaneously: temperature, pressure, sound, and movement. This rich sensory experience supports brain development and helps children process the world around them.

Following Directions and Boundary Awareness — Pool rules about walking, staying in designated areas, and listening for whistles teach children to follow safety guidelines. This translates to other settings and builds respect for community spaces.

Turn-Taking and Peer Interaction — Sharing water space, waiting for turns on the slide, and observing other children at play encourages social awareness and cooperation skills.

Tips & Variations

• Arrive on a weekday morning if possible. Weekends and hot summer afternoons draw large crowds, which can overwhelm preschoolers and make it harder to supervise effectively. Tuesday or Wednesday mornings in June often offer the best balance of manageable crowds and warm water.

• Bring a floating toy or kickboard. A small rubber duck, plastic boat, or colorful kickboard gives your child a focus point and something to hold onto while building water confidence. Avoid heavy or hard toys that could create hazards.

• Age variation: For 2-3 year olds, focus entirely on shallow water play and let them sit on the pool steps. Expect shorter visits (30-45 minutes), prioritize warmth and comfort, and skip the waterslide entirely. For 4-5 year olds, you can gradually introduce deeper water, attempt basic floating skills, and make the slide a special activity.

• Seasonal twist: Plan a "water temperature challenge" in late June or July when the water is warmest. Visit on the hottest days when the full experience is most enjoyable, and save cooler months for indoor pools if your child isn't ready for cold water.

• Bring a waterproof camera or go phone-free. Capture a few quick moments, but spend most of your time fully present and engaged. Your child will remember your smile and encouragement far more than a perfect photo.

My Two Cents

There's something magical about seeing a small child's face light up as they splash in the water for the first time at Veterans Memorial Pool. Your job isn't to make your child into a fearless swimmer overnight—it's simply to create happy, safe memories and let water play unfold naturally. The pool is a wonderful escape from the summer heat, an affordable way to spend quality time together, and a place where your little one can explore, play, and grow. Trust your instincts, follow your child's lead, and remember that every splash is progress.