Free 2026 Tomball Kids Swim Program Opens Registration Soon as Jerry Matheson Public Pool Prepares for Summer Season
As temperatures begin rising across Tomball, another sign of summer is returning with it: the reopening of Jerry Matheson Public Pool and Splash Pad and the launch of the City of Tomball’s free Tomball Kids Swim program.
Designed to introduce young children to swimming while teaching essential water safety skills, the Tomball Kids Swim program has become a familiar summer opportunity for local families looking to help children build confidence around water in a safe, structured environment.
Registration for Session 1 of the 2026 Tomball Kids Swim program will take place Tuesday, May 26, from 4 to 5 p.m. in person at Jerry Matheson Public Pool, located at 1240 Ulrich Rd. in Tomball.
The free program is open to children ages 4 to 7 and features limited class sizes, helping instructors provide focused attention as children begin learning foundational swimming and safety techniques. According to program information released by the city, lessons are intended to teach basic life-saving swim skills and introduce elementary-aged children to the water, while encouraging continued practice and future swim development.
A Summer Tradition Focused on Safety and Confidence
For many Tomball families, the return of the public pool marks the unofficial beginning of summer break. But beyond recreation, city leaders continue emphasizing the importance of water safety education for young children.
The Tomball Kids Swim program offers beginner-focused instruction through multiple learning levels, allowing children to gradually develop comfort and basic swimming ability. Program materials outline skill development ranging from floating and kicking to reaching the wall safely and practicing breathing techniques while swimming.
The city notes the program is intended as an introduction to swimming and is not considered a replacement for ongoing swim lessons or additional training.
Classes are held on Tuesdays or Thursdays throughout June and July, with two sessions offered during the summer months. Due to limited availability, priority may be given to children who have not yet participated during the current swim season.
Jerry Matheson Public Pool and Splash Pad Ready for Another Busy Summer
Located within Jerry Matheson Park, the city-operated outdoor pool and splash pad has become one of Tomball’s most popular seasonal gathering spots for families.
Operated and maintained by the City of Tomball Public Works Department, the public pool is free and open to all ages during the summer season. The facility includes both a traditional swimming pool and a shaded splash pad area designed for younger children and families seeking a more relaxed water play environment.
Unlike traditional pools, the splash pad features spray jets, motion-activated water features, dumping buckets, and soft play surfaces without standing water, creating an option many parents view as especially approachable for toddlers and younger children. The splash pad is accessible through the pool entrance and separated from the main pool area by a gated barrier for added safety.
The pool’s 2026 pre-season opening is scheduled for Memorial Day weekend, beginning Saturday, May 23. Regular season hours will run from May 26 through Aug. 9, with the facility operating Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends from noon to 8 p.m.
The facility will also offer extended weekend operations into early September, including Labor Day weekend.
In-Person Registration Opens May 26
Families interested in participating in the Tomball Kids Swim program must register in person during the designated registration window.
Session 1 registration opens Tuesday, May 26, between 4 and 5 p.m. at Jerry Matheson Public Pool. The city has stated late applications will not be accepted after registration closes due to staffing and scheduling considerations.
Program applications and additional information are available through the City of Tomball website at tomballtx.gov/jmpool.
As another summer season approaches, the combination of free public pool access, family-friendly splash pad amenities, and water safety programming continues reflecting Tomball’s investment in accessible recreation and community-centered summer activities.
For many local parents, the program offers more than just swim instruction — it provides peace of mind as children spend more time around pools, splash pads, and water activities during the hottest months of the year.
Residents can find additional updates and seasonal announcements through the City of Tomball and by staying connected with My Neighborhood News.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.