A day at the lake is one of the best ways to create lasting family memories—but when kids are involved, safety has to come first. With the right setup and a few creative ideas, your dock can become both a fun playground and a safe haven. Whether you’re spending time on Lake Travis, Lake Conroe, or your own backyard waterfront, here’s how to keep little ones happy, busy, and protected from sunrise to sunset.
1. Start With a Safety-First Setup
Before the fun begins, make sure your dock is ready for kids.
- Inspect the surface: Check for splinters, loose boards, and exposed nails.
- Add safety rails or bumpers: Especially around edges and stairs.
- Use non-slip materials: Floating docks like those from EZ Dock Texas have textured, slip-resistant surfaces perfect for wet feet.
- Install ladders: Make sure they’re sturdy and easy to climb, even for smaller swimmers.
Keep life jackets within arm’s reach and ensure every child wears one near the water—no exceptions. Texas law requires children under 13 to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on boats, and it’s smart practice on docks too.
2. Create a Designated “Kid Zone”
Give kids their own section of the dock or waterfront. This helps you keep track of everyone and prevents little ones from wandering near deeper water.
Set up:
- Shade tents or umbrellas for sun protection.
- Portable chairs and coolers for snacks and drinks.
- Colorful floor mats or towels to mark each child’s area.
If you have older kids, set boundaries about which parts of the dock are for swimming and which are off-limits without an adult.
3. Plan Water-Safe Games
Kids love games that involve movement and water. Try these easy, dock-friendly favorites:
- Bucket relay: Have kids fill and carry small buckets of water from the lake to a container on the dock.
- Floating toy races: Release small boats or rubber ducks and cheer as they float to the finish line.
- Cannonball contest: Let older kids show off their splash skills while younger ones score the “performances.”
- Fishing for toys: Toss floating rings or toys into the water and let kids scoop them up with nets.
Avoid running or pushing near edges, and make sure games stop the moment someone feels tired or overheated.
4. Introduce Beginner-Friendly Water Sports
Older children can enjoy safe, simple water activities right from the dock.
- Paddleboarding: Use wide, stable boards in shallow areas. Kids can sit or kneel before standing.
- Kayaking: A tandem kayak lets an adult steer while kids enjoy the ride.
- Swimming practice: Floating docks create a calm, contained space for lessons or free swim.
Always supervise directly and establish a “one adult per swimmer” rule for young children.
5. Schedule Dry Dock Activities
Too much sun and water can wear kids out fast. Rotate between water play and relaxing dockside activities to keep energy balanced.
Try:
- Craft hour: Paint small rocks, decorate shells, or make dock signs.
- Nature scavenger hunt: Look for feathers, fish, and interesting clouds.
- Dockside picnic: Use reusable containers and spill-proof cups for an eco-friendly lunch.
If you have power access, a small portable fan or misting unit helps keep things cool during the midday heat.
6. Keep the Dock Area Organized
Kids’ gear can pile up quickly—towels, goggles, toys, snacks, and sunscreen all seem to end up underfoot. Use large waterproof bins or labeled baskets to keep everything contained.
Designate:
- One bin for dry towels
- One for wet gear
- One for toys and floaties
This not only reduces clutter but also prevents tripping hazards on a busy dock.
7. Teach Kids About Water Safety
Turn safety into a game. Before getting in the water, review rules like:
- “One step back from the edge unless Mom or Dad says it’s okay.”
- “Life jackets on until swimming starts.”
- “If you drop something, ask an adult to get it.”
Teaching respect for the water early builds lifelong awareness and confidence. Kids who understand why safety matters are more likely to follow the rules on their own.
8. Protect Them From the Texas Sun
The Texas sun can be relentless. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours or after swimming.
Encourage breaks under the shade, and keep cold water or fruit snacks handy to prevent dehydration. Sun hats and UV-blocking swim shirts add an extra layer of protection.
9. Add Lighting for Evening Fun
When the sun starts to set, soft lighting lets you safely extend your dock time.
Install solar dock lights or LED rope lighting along edges and walkways to keep visibility high. Warm, low-glow lighting not only prevents accidents but also adds a magical touch for evening storytelling or s’mores on the dock.
10. End the Day With Reflection (and Cleanup)
Before heading inside, involve kids in a quick cleanup routine. Have them collect toys, wring out towels, and store life jackets properly.
Then, spend a few quiet minutes together watching the sunset or listening to the gentle sounds of the lake. These slower moments are often the ones that kids remember most.
A Safe Dock Is a Happy Dock
With a bit of preparation, your dock can become a full-day destination for family fun. From water games to learning moments, every experience near the lake is a chance to build confidence and connection—safely.
For modular, slip-resistant floating docks built with family safety in mind, contact EZ Dock Texas. You can also follow EZ Dock Texas on Facebook for family-friendly tips, product ideas, and stories from Texas dock owners who love life by the water.
