Think back to your childhood summers. Chances are, some of your happiest memories weren’t made on a screen. They were made outside.
- Sprinklers in the yard
- Cannonballs into a pool
- Long evenings with friends when the only thing glowing was a firefly, not a phone
At Townley Pool and Spa in Little Rock, we believe those memories aren’t a thing of the past.
You can rediscover that same sense of connection, fun, and freedom, all while enjoying more time together and less time glued to screens.
The Screen-Time Struggle
If you’re a parent, you’ve probably seen firsthand how quickly devices can take over. Research shows that school-aged children spend between four and six hours a day on screens, and teenagers often log seven to nine hours daily.
That adds up to nearly 2,000 hours each year. That’s time they can click less and spend outdoors, being active, and making memories.
On the flip side, experts recommend kids spend at least three hours outside daily to support physical health, emotional development, and creativity. Unfortunately, many fall far short of that target.
The good news? A pool can change the equation almost overnight. Instead of negotiating with your kids to “go outside and play,” you’ll find them asking you when they can dive in next.
We regularly hear from Little Rock families who tell us the same story. Swimming in either their pool or a friend’s changes the rhythm of their day. Here’s what they’ve noticed when their kids click less and swim more.
Less Screen Time Without Battles
Parents report that their kids naturally reduce device use once they spend more time outside in the pool.
The pool is simply more appealing than scrolling. No more daily arguments over turning off the Xbox or putting down the phone.
Plus, they want to invite friends over. So, instead of texting their friends for hours each day, they are actually outside talking to them.
More Outdoor Play
Nearly every family we talk to notices a big jump in how much time their kids spend outdoors if there’s a pool involved.
For more than half, the shift is dramatic, and suddenly, the yard is where the action is.
Fun, Active Movement
Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise, but kids rarely see it that way.
For them, it’s games of “sharks and minnows,” races to the deep end, or trying to perfect the biggest splash.
Parents love that their kids are moving, strengthening muscles, and building endurance without even realizing they’re exercising.
More Social Kids
When there’s a pool in the backyard, your house quickly becomes the place to be.
- Kids invite friends over.
- Teens have a safe spot to hang out.
- Parents gain peace of mind knowing their children are home while still enjoying social interaction.
Family Time That Matters
Pools aren’t just for kids. They pull the whole family together.
Parents tell us evenings by the pool have replaced evenings in front of the TV or on phones or tablets. Whether it’s floating with a cool drink, cooking out poolside, or teaching a little one how to swim, families treasure this quality time.
A Pool Is More Than Just Water
A pool is never just a pool. It’s a stage for life’s little moments and big milestones:
- Birthdays and sleepovers: Suddenly, you don’t have to rent out venues. Your backyard is the party.
- Stress relief for parents: A quick dip after work can melt away the day’s tension.
- A year-round gathering spot: Even when it’s too chilly to swim, pools with decks and seating become cozy gathering places for friends and neighbors. Homes with hot tubs can even move to the water here when it’s too cold outside.
Wellness & Fun Combined
Pools aren’t just about play. They encourage healthier lifestyles for both kids and adults. Swimming builds endurance, improves cardiovascular health, and is gentle on joints. This makes it perfect for all ages.
This is why it’s so important to keep swimming evening after school starts in mid-August! It’s easy to put it by the wayside when schedules get busy, but it’s key to helping kids click less. Splash more with friends and family, and everyone thrives!
Townley is Here for You
We’ve been serving Central Arkansas families for decades, and our team is here for you when it comes to service and maintenance, pool chemicals, pool covers, pool cleaners, and other accessories.
We know a pool is an investment. And we will help you care for it with local expertise and reliable service. We’re here for the life of your pool!
