Overcoming Fear of Water: Tips for Parents – Water Safety & Comfort Starts Early

Parent & baby swimming lessons are a way to introduce children to the water in a safe, playful, and nurturing environment. These early experiences help build water confidence and strengthen the bond between parent and child. They also lay the foundation for essential water safety skills. And, of course, can help with overcoming a fear of water.

Here are some effective and enjoyable parent and baby swimming lesson ideas. Try these in a class or on your own.

1. Water Acclimation Through Play

The first step to overcoming a fear of water is helping your baby become comfortable in the water. This should be a relaxed, fun process filled with play and sensory exploration. Use floating toys like rubber ducks or boats to encourage reaching, splashing, and curiosity.

Try gently pouring water over your baby’s shoulders, hands, and feet using a small cup. A keyword could be beneficial when about to pour water over the babies face and head, such as “ready, go.” Narrating your actions in a soothing voice helps your baby feel secure and engaged. Singing familiar songs like “This is the Way we Wash”, “Wheels on the Bus” and “Row Your Boat” adds a comforting rhythm and structure to the session. Adding simple hand motions or gentle swaying can deepen the connection and make the experience more interactive.

2. Building Face Water Confidence

Getting a baby used to having water on or near their face is an important step. You can start by demonstrating how to blow bubbles in the water. Even if your baby isn’t ready to do it yet, they’ll begin to imitate your actions over time. Use your hand to lightly splash water near their cheeks, chin, and forehead. You can also play a peekaboo game using a small watering can or cup to gently trickle water down their face. These activities help babies gradually become more comfortable with water sensations.

3. Encouraging Body Movement and Floating

Helping your baby feel the sensation of floating and moving in water builds awareness and comfort. Support your baby under the chest and arms and let them float tummy-down while encouraging gentle kicking motions. For back floating, cradle their head and upper back while they lie calmly on the water’s surface.

Try walking slowly through the water with your baby on your hip or facing outward. This gives them a sense of movement and introduces new water sensations. Vary the experience by walking in gentle zigzags or incorporating light bouncing movements.

4. Teaching Early Skills Through Games

Introducing basic swim skills through games keeps learning fun and pressure-free. Try placing a floating toy just out of reach. Then gently guide your baby toward it to practice reaching and swimming motions. Also try sitting your baby on the pool edge and count to three before lifting them gently into the water. This helps with anticipation and builds confidence. Another valuable activity is helping your baby grasp the pool edge or wall. Encourage them to “hold on like a big kid” and praise their efforts to promote early safety awareness.

5. Gentle Submersion Practice (For 3 Months and Older Babies with Guidance)

If your baby is over three months old and shows readiness, you can begin gentle submersions. However, we recommend this is done under the guidance of a trained instructor. Start by introducing a consistent verbal cue such as “Name, ready, go!” or “Name, ready, under”. Then follow up with a quick splash of water over the face. Once your baby becomes familiar with the cue, you can try a very brief and gentle submersion. This should be done for a short time only, quickly back up, all while maintaining a calm and happy tone. It’s important to never force submersion and to watch for your baby’s comfort cues closely.

Tips for a Positive Experience

  • Maintain eye contact and use a calm, cheerful voice throughout the session.
  • Look for signs that your baby is getting tired or overstimulated, such as rubbing eyes or fussiness.
  • End every lesson on a positive note. Whether it’s a favourite song, a cuddle in the water, or a quiet moment together.
  • Aim for consistency. Regular exposure is most beneficial.

With patience, positivity, and playful interaction, parent and baby swim sessions can become joyful milestones. They will help with overcoming a fear of water and set the stage for a lifelong love of water.

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