We have life-jackets as well.....to use around the pool, canoe trips, etc.
We bought a kiddie/baby raft (at a Dollar store) - it has a bottom and higher sides...they like to float around it it..they can lay, sit, stand, etc. --this way, they enjoy being in the "pool" around us, w/o getting wet.
We don't let them in the water often, because I am afraid they will some how swallow the water or something
I freak out about stuff like that!