HOW TO TEACH KIDS ABOUT WATER SAFETY
For kids, there’s no better way to spend a hot day than in the water. Whether at a pool party or at the beach, swimming is a great way to make memories with loved ones. However, a fun day swimming can quickly take a turn for the worse if your child is unaware of basic water safety rules. To avoid a swimming accident, here are some ways to teach water safety for kids.
WATER SAFETY FOR KIDS: HOW TO ENSURE SAFE SWIMMING
It’s never too early to teach your children about safe swimming. Here are some crucial water safety lessons to go over with your kids before they jump in the water.
Swimming Lessons: According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children as early as age 1 can start swim lessons. Family members should also consider taking swim lessons, so they can feel comfortable getting in the water and help supervise their young swimmers up close. Most local recreation centers provide swim lessons taught by certified lifeguards.
General Swimming Safety: Young swimmers should be equipped with proper flotation devices when they’re learning how to swim. It’s important to teach children to wade in shallow areas of the pool and to not swim while they’re tired. Instruct beginning swimmers on how to tread water, float on their backs or get out of the water if they become exhausted.
Around the Pool: There are several rules children should follow at swimming pools. They should never run around a pool or go in without telling an adult, and they should always look before they jump in to make sure it’s the proper depth and free of debris and other swimmers. While in the pool, kids should always be supervised by either a parent or lifeguard, play safely, and know to never hold anyone under the water.
At the Beach: Swimming in the ocean or other open bodies of water requires an extra set of rules. At the beach, children should know to stay between lifeguard stations, and learn how to read warning flags to avoid unsafe water conditions such as large waves that could knock them over or dangerous undercurrents that can tow them under and away from the shore.
In an Emergency: Children should be taught to immediately tell an adult if they see a swimming emergency. While they may feel the need to jump in and help, an inexperienced swimmer could only make the situation worse. Instead, a lifeguard or responsible adult should be notified to rescue or assist a struggling swimmer with first aid or CPR. In case of an emergency, always ensure proper rescue equipment and emergency phone numbers are nearby.
FREE SWIMMING LESSONS WITH ALMA SWIM FOUNDATION
At Alma Swim Foundation, our mission is to transform lives by making swimming accessible, safe and enjoyable for everyone. We break down barriers to promote water confidence and ensure every child and adult in the Black community has the opportunity to learn, experience and embrace the joy of swimming. When you support the foundation, you can help make a meaningful impact in the Central Florida area, create an inclusive and equitable society and save lives. Donate toward providing swimming lessons, drowning prevention education and valuable life-saving resources by contacting Alma Swim Foundation today.
