Parents can try out these ways to establish happy memories with water.
If your child is water-shy, try these tips for building water confidence and maximizing productive swim lesson time.
A common fear for children is putting their eyes in the water. Sinking toys can be a good solution for eyes-in practice. Start with easy toys like dive sticks or rings. Not only do these toys have a large gripping surface, but they can also stand up in the water so your child won’t have to reach down as far to snag them.
Once your child becomes comfortable with these toys, you can use more difficult items such as picking up coins. These sinkers require your child to submerge farther and longer, allowing them to practice a steady, slow exhale.
Floating toys are also equally beneficial for building water confidence like ping-pong balls.
Your child’s own swin gear gives them a sense of ownership, making it more fun. It’s worth the investment in toys and goggles. Googles allow kids to feel comfortable while putting their faces in the water.
Pool time spent with families and friends is a great way to boost water confidence in your children. Most kids are inspired by seeing other swimmers. Seeing others with these skills makes it easier for them to see themselves doing it. Sibling rivalries can be beneficial in a learning environment, motivating kids to try harder, despite their anxieties.
Kids who have a fear of water need more positive experiences to motivate them to try new skills. A child who thinks of water as a scary place looks for ways to avoid putting their face in the water. A child who thinks of the pool as an exciting place to learn new skills is more easily able to learn how to swim.
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