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Pool Party
Get Fit, Have Fun and Stay Cool in the Pool By Shel Franco
Got pool? Got fun! Few things signal summer fun like a backyard swimming pool. Whether it's an in-ground chlorinated haven or a plastic wading wonderland, kids everywhere will agree: Pools are cool!
Even better, pool play is a great way to get fit this summer. Don't fret if your backyard is without a pool; you're bound to have access to one at some point this summer, and you'll be the life of the party if you remember these classic pool games. Always remember to supervise kids when in or around water, and only allow those who know how to swim to play these games.
At least three people are needed to play this game effectively. Even more players make for even more fun.
How do you play?
Pick a person to be "Marco" and place him in the middle of the swimming pool. Cover his eyes with a blindfold or a pair of goggles stuffed with paper towels (or trust him to keep his eyes closed!). The remaining players spread out around the pool. To begin play, have the most skilled swimmer spin Marco about five times. (Afterwards, the player can silently slip away from Marco's side.) Marco tries to find a player to tag using only his senses of touch and hearing. He moves throughout the pool calling out, "Marco!" When he does, players are obligated to call back, "Polo!" This gives Marco the opportunity to hone in on a player. Once someone is tagged, he or she becomes the new Marco.
Quick tips
- Players are allowed to move. Just keep in mind that movement will often lead to noise, and that gives Marco a target!
- Getting out of the pool is not advisable. Games like Marco Polo tend to cause excitement, and excitement in the pool environment can lead to running a very dangerous poolside action.
- Older players can have the number of calls ("Marco") limited so that younger players get a fair shake.