New Water Factory and Toddler Splash Toys for Dolphin Centre, Darlington

Hippo have rejuvenated the toddler pool at The Dolphin Centre into a colourful interactive water play area designed to excite and stimulate the minds of toddlers and children and increase water confidence. A variety of high and low level water features appeal to a range of ages and ability groups, with the aim of helping to increase regular visitor numbers and revenue at the centre.

A water factory comprising two masts are joined together by an arch which houses a shark shower, 2 small water wheels and 4 small tipping buckets which tip and spray and shower water onto children playing below at varying intervals. A giant tap coming from the base of one mast spurts into a pair of interactive water channels. Each channel features 2 paddles which allow children to manipulate the flow of water which cascades through the channels and back into the pool.

Tiny tots love sliding down the under the sea themed toddler slide. Their friends are also kept occupied whilst they wait their turn playing with a range of moving elements on the slides tactile surfaces including spinning fish and reflective mirrors.

Finally a selection of aquatic themed interactive panels will help to develop auditory, visual and mental stimulation in less water confident toddlers and children as they enjoy learning through playing games such as who pairs wins, show me how to and whirlpool. A selection of domes, mirrors and moving features will arouse further curiosity.

Hippo have designed the water factory to make future expansion possible to keep the toddler pool fresh and appealing in the long term.