Classroom Resources: Paddling Pool
We have a number of classroom resources which we use very frequently and can be used in a range of ways within different activities. Although often costly, these are things which we have used week-in-week-out and have stood the test of time. We like to choose resources which can be used creatively in a number of different ways for open-ended play-based activities.
Paddling Pool.
Ball pools can be expensive and take up a lot of space in the classroom.
A paddling pool is a great alternative that can still offer pupils with a full body sensory experience whilst providing flexibility in it’s use at a more affordable price. We purchased ours from Argos for £35.00 and after 5 years of use, it has not needed replacing yet!
We like the inflatable sides for the challenge of climbing (or rolling) in and out and the postural support that they can provide for pupils who need some assistance.
You don’t just have to fill a paddling pool with water…
Classroom use
We use the paddling pool frequently during carousel play because it provides excellent sensorimotor integration opportunities. You can easily use your topic theme to inspire what you put in the paddling pool to inspire play. Don’t forget to put it on top of a padded mat to provide a softer surface for pupils to move safely and confidently.
Play in different ways
You will need some ball pool balls, but other things we like to fill it with include big soft cushions, space blankets, different textured fabrics, inflatables, balloons, texture cushions or squeak steps.
Climbing into the paddling pool provides your body with lots of tactile and proprioceptive feedback which is important for development body awareness. Taking off jumpers, socks and shoes will obviously increase how much skin you have in contact with the different objects and therefore how much tactile information your body receives. Knowing how to get into the paddling pool is a fun challenge in itself!
Boardmaker Symbols: PCS and Boardmaker are trademarks of Tobii Dynavox LLC. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
These are just a few examples of how we have filled our paddling pool to inspire play during carousel play.
If you are enjoying our content, The Springboard Curriculum is available to buy here as an immediate digital download. You can follow the link to view sample pages before you buy. The reason we decided to share our work? To allow educators to use their time creatively to maximise play and tailor the learning activities to the strengths and challenges of each pupil.
£1 of every sale goes to the school’s charity to give back to the educators and pupils who inspired the curriculum.
NB: These product reviews are based on our own experiences. We have no affiliate links and receive no payments from any companies we reference. Similar resources may be available from other suppliers.
