lgbtqinclusiveplanning
What's a two-dad family changing room strategy at splash pads?
Quick answer
Two-dad families with daughters use the same strategies as solo dads: family restrooms when available, hooded poncho towels for poolside changes, and pre-visit research on restroom layouts. Most newer pads have all-gender family restrooms that solve it entirely.
Two-dad families with daughters β or any same-gender family configuration with opposite-gender kids β face the same changing-room logistics as solo dads. Solutions: (1) Family or all-gender single-stall restrooms β now standard at municipal pads built since 2020. Always the easiest option. (2) Hooded poncho towels β let kids change at the bench under cover. (3) Pop-up changing tents β $25-40, fits in a bag. (4) Pre-visit research β call the parks department or check the pad website for restroom photos. (5) Coordination β the dad most comfortable with the situation handles changes; many two-dad families designate a 'changing-room dad' for outings. As kids age into 7-9, they often handle their own changes in single-stall family restrooms while one dad waits outside. Staff at most splash pads are unfazed by two-dad families; they've seen everything. Don't let logistics keep you from showing up. Building Pride community with other two-dad families can also share local pad recommendations.