According to a survey done by the Red Cross, 54% of Americans can’t swim or don’t have the basic swimming skills needed to be safe in the water. Not being able to swim confidently not only puts you at risk, but it also means that you are not able to enjoy a fun form of exercise that can bring great enjoyment. The best time to learn to swim is when you are young – this is why it is important to sign your children up for swimming lessons early and spend some time helping them to build their confidence in the water.
Go to the pool or the beach
Visiting the pool regularly, or taking them to the beach, will help your kids gain confidence. Don’t just jump straight in though, especially if they are a little nervous, particularly at the ocean. Natural water settings pose a risk for adults and children alike, not least because of the waves and currents, so you should only go in the water on a calm day. You should also make sure that there are no obstructions underneath the water. Even having a little paddle, or playing some fun ball games in the shallows will help your child to enjoy being in the water without any pressure.
Take it slowly
With young children, it is important for them to get used to having their faces in the water without worry. Don’t just dunk them in – this could cause them to be afraid. Just take it slowly. Play some face washing games, or challenge your child to blow bubbles in the water. Get them a pair of goggles so that they can search for fish, and put colored toys in the shallows for them to find. This will help them to build confidence but in a fun way.
Tech them to float
Floating is one of the first key skills that your child should learn in the water. When they are first learning to swim, using a floatation aid or a pool noodle can really help them. You can also help them to get the balance in the water themselves by supporting them as they lie on their back. You can then move them around the pool and play some games or sing some songs together. It is a lovely way for you to bond with younger children too.
Taking it slowly when you first introduce your children to water will help them to learn the basic skills they need in a safe environment. Visiting the pool or the beach regularly will help them to enjoy the water and actively want to swim.