How to Raise Safe, Confident, and Joyful Swimmers

by SafeSplash Sioux Falls

As a parent, you play a vital role in helping your child learn how to swim and ensuring your family enjoys a lifetime of fun memories around the water.

Summertime. On social media, it looks like parents relaxing in the shade with a good book while the kids splash for hours in the pool. In reality, lazy summer afternoons like this can be stressful. Especially if your child doesn’t know how to swim, is afraid of the water, or isn’t following the rules for safe water practices.

Not to worry, though. You can be your child’s number one encourager and teacher when it comes to learning how to swim and respecting water safety.

HERE’S HOW.

1.Sign your child up for swimming

lessons. This might seem obvious, but with all the tasks busy families have to accomplish each week, swimming lessons can get put on the backburner. The gift of being a confident, strong swimmer is one of the most important things you can give your child. In swim lessons, they’ll discover fun and learn the skills and strokes they need to stay safe in the water. Think of teaching your child how to swim the same way you’d approach teaching them how to cross the street without you. It’s not an optional life skill. It’s vital for their growth and safety in the world.

2. Be an advocate for your child’s

swimming development. It’s a big deal for your child, and for you. More than just signing your little one up for lessons and walking away, you have an even greater responsibility toward your child once they start getting in the water.

You, the parent, set the tone for how learning to swim will feel for your child. Participate if you’re in the water with them. Be encouraging if you’re on the sidelines. Understand that a good instructor will focus on overcoming fear with fun before moving to skill development. Stay informed on what they’re learning in their lessons so you can further the advice from their instructor and discuss with them why these skills are so important.

3. Have regular and ongoing conversations about learning to swim

and water safety. Whenever you’re around a body of water, lay the ground rules and consequences for what’s expected. The goal is not only to teach your child how to swim to have fun but also to keep themselves and others safe in the water. If there’s no going in without an adult or a buddy, no jumping in headfirst, or no running, talk to them about these boundaries and why they’re in place. Make water safety and swim skills a natural part of your family life by always keeping this conversation going.

When you do, anxiety and fear will subside and doors will open to a lifetime of joyful new experiences for your child and your entire family.

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