Learn how to make a DIY water pump for kids in just two easy steps. This perfect backyard system allows kids to access water play and outdoor activities without having to turn on the hose. Make this hand pump for your kids and unlock a new level of independence in their outdoor play.
Why make a DIY water pump?
This DIY water pump was an absolute cinch to make: two parts and some hose water, and our backyard lives have changed.
In the past, every time my kids needed water for play in the backyard, they had two options: bring their dirty outdoor bodies into the house or turn on the hose.
Both were lacking options: one brought untold amounts of mud into my house (and often resulted in my good kitchen items being transferred to the backyard along with the water) and the other wasted so much water (kids often needed just a bit but the hose sent out way more).
It’s been 3 months since I set up this DIY water pump and water a game changer for all the kids (toddler to teen) who play in my back yard.
RELATED: Looking for a fun summer option with kids? Try my summer camp at home program (it’s absolutely free!).
Free Summer Camp at Home
Download Busy Toddler’s free 6-week summer camp program for toddlers to elementary-age kids
EASY FUN FOR FAMILIES ALL SUMMER LONG
What age is this hand pump good for?
In my backyard, I have this set up for all ages to use: from a two-year-old neighbor to an almost 8th grader (everyone use “the pump”).
I wanted to find a system that gave kids more autonomy in my backyard. Toddlers can turn on a hose, set the correct pressure, and aim it appropriately (fun to let them play with a hose but not when they’re looking for accuracy).
Other kids can get the bits of water they need for chalk paint, mud pies, and filled water blasters. It’s a beautiful life when kids can access play without adult interference.
Before this system, kids were much more reliant on adults to access water play. That isn’t the case now (and it’s such a good thing for these kids).
RELATED: Looking for fun water play ideas to try this summer? Check out my whole list of them!
The two supplies you need for a DIY water pump
Busy Toddler is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about these links in my disclosure policy.
Water Pump
I bought two hand pumps to try from Amazon – this was the cheaper of the 2. It’s been fabulous. Fifteen kids use this constantly and it’s doing great. I’m really comfortable recommending this more affordable version.
Water Jug
I grabbed a water jug like this from my local Home Depot. The above linked hand pump fits perfectly on top and I refill it with hose water. It’s been fantastic.
The basic directions for using this water pump
The large water jug from Home Depot came with a wrapper on the top. I removed that since this isn’t going into a water dispenser.
I filled the jug with hose water (simple simple), and attached the top hand pump.
A few “prime the pump” pushes later, and we’ve got water.
It’s. That. Easy.
Toddlers can access it. Big kids can refill it. This was the independence win that my kids and their friends needed (and that I needed to keep my summer sittervising going strong).
Susie Allison, M. Ed
Owner, Creator
Susie Allison is the creator of Busy Toddler and has more than 2.4 million followers on Instagram. A former teacher and early childhood education advocate, Susie has written two home learning curricula, Playing Preschool and Branches. Her parenting book “Busy Toddler’s Guide to Actual Parenting” is available on Amazon.
Subscribe to my free newsletter and I’ll send you “35 Easy Toddler Activities to Break Up the Day!”
Leave a Comment