Thanks so much for the tips!
I will look into the safety ladder for sure. I really like that idea! My youngest kids are 10 and 8, so not small kids, and there are no kids around us as we are rural, so no sneaking neighbor kids. We have a plan B, with a large piece of board covering the stairs that the kids won't be able to move. Hard to explain what I mean. I would prefer the ladder though.
Watermom, we do plan on building a half deck like your picture showed, but next year, due to cost. I can't wait to have something nice like that.

Sunlove, I didn't want grass next to the pool, due to upkeep, but was thinking of ferns as they are wild around our property. I guess roots are a no-no. Good thought.

Once I gain access to see pictures I will look at what others did. I tried but I was denied. lol.