Jar test is certainly your place to start.

If kids stir up silt, it will settle relatively quickly. If the kids stir up clay particles with electrical charges, that can stay suspended for a LONG time.

Here is a link where I give some instructions for a jar test.

If you scroll down a little farther, you will see where esshup gives some links on what to do after you get the results of your jar test.

Thread with jar test

Good luck on your pond!