What adult-to-child supervision ratios should groups use at splash pads?

The standard adult-to-child supervision ratios for water activities tighten the younger the kids: 1:3 for infants and toddlers under 3 (because they cannot self-rescue in 2 inches of water), 1:4 for ages 3-5, 1:6 for ages 6-9, and 1:10 for ages 10+. State daycare and licensed-camp regulations frequently require tighter ratios — often 1:4 statewide for any water activity regardless of age. The most important practice is the designated 'water watcher' role: one adult per 8 kids whose only job is watching the water, with phone put away, no conversations, no other tasks. Rotate this role every 15-20 minutes because attention drops. The water watcher should be physically positioned to see all assigned kids, ideally at arm's length. American Red Cross teaches this exact protocol. For very large groups (50+ kids), break into named subgroups of 10 with one lead adult and one assistant adult, plus the rotating water watcher role above. Document the supervision plan in writing and brief all adults before kids enter the water.