First published: 28 May 2021 @ 10:19 am
1. Start with baby steps
Your baby won’t learn to swim by throwing him or her into the deep end of the pool. It would be best if you taught your child to float and be comfortable in the water before you can expect him or her to be able to swim.
To teach your child how to float, you can place your baby on his or her back in a pool, bathtub, or even in a large basin of water.
You’ll want to make sure that there is enough water for your baby’s head not to be submerged while floating. Try playing with your baby by splashing some water onto his or her face and encouraging them to splashback.
2. Help them kick their feet
The best way for your child to learn how to swim is by developing a feel for moving their arms and legs independently of each other. As they get older, they will eventually want to move around the pool independently, but in the beginning it’s important that they learn how their arms and legs work together so that they can start swimming independently.
One of the best ways for them to develop this coordination is by kicking their feet and moving their arms at the same time while floating on their backs in the water. They will also be able to learn how to breathe properly while doing this.
3. Introduce them to water activities
The next step in teaching your child how to swim is to start introducing them to water activities that they can participate in. While it’s not necessary for your child to be able to swim in order for them to enjoy water activities, it will make the experience more enjoyable for them if they are comfortable being in the water.
Activities like playing with floating toys, blowing bubbles, and splashing around with other kids can help develop their comfort level with being in the water. They will also be able to practice kicking their feet and moving their arms simultaneously while participating in these activities.
If you have a pool or other body of water nearby, you can try practicing these skills in that environment as well. Just make sure that there is a lifeguard on duty if you do this.
4. Have fun together
The best way for your child to learn how to swim is by having fun doing it! Having fun with your child will encourage him or her to want to learn how to swim even more and will also make it easier for them when they are trying out new skills.
It’s important that you not only teach your child how to swim but that you also enjoy the process of doing so. You can have fun with your child by playing games like Marco Polo in the pool or splashing around with them.
It’s important to keep in mind that your child will not learn how to swim overnight. You will need to spend time with them in the water and encourage them along the way.
Your baby will eventually learn how to swim, but it will take some time and patience on your part.
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