5 Fun Ways to Help Your Child Conquer His Fear of Water

Swimming is one of the most important skills that a person must acquire in his life. It is best to learn this skill as early as possible before the fear of water sets in. But in case your child is already dreading the water, here are 6 tips to keep your child's fear at bay.

1. Let the child get accustomed to the water. Everything starts with the first step. In swimming, the first step is as simple as letting your child get wet. This can start in the shower room. After getting wet, some children will be more adventurous in getting into the water while others will take a longer time to even sit at the edge of the pool. Either way, encourage the child to play in the water even if you have to carry him the whole time. As he gets used to the water, he will eventually learn to let go.
2. Play on the steps. You can build your child's trust by holding his hand as you both step into the pool. Let him sit down on the steps and play there by splashing water, for example, or give him a toy that he can play with. The important key is for your child to learn that the water is safe and he can have lots of fun in it.
3. Blow bubbles under water. This serves two purpose - to practice deep breathing and encourage your child to submerge his face underwater. You can turn this into a game. Start with a countdown. Have him take a deep breath and close his mouth. Then have him lower his mouth and nose under water where he will exhale through his nose afterwards.
4. Play games. You can bring plastic balls which you will throw into the water. Urge your child to retrieve the ball. Make sure of course that the pool is shallow enough for the child to walk in without submerging. Once the child is used to walking in the pool, you can start throwing toys that sink. Persuade your child to look for the toy underwater and get it. The goal here is to let the child get used to putting his face under water and eventually his whole head.
5. Teach the child to kick. Whether the child is hanging on to you or on the side of the pool, teach him how to kick his legs under water. Once he learns how to kick his legs, encourage him to use a swim board so he can move around the pool while kicking.
6. Professional lessons.  As your child becomes a little older I really encourage you to put him in to a swim class with other kids.  He will learn proper swimming techniques and pool etiquette.

Maureen Amberg is an author, entrepreneur and children’s advocate for MEA Online Edge Inc., with emphasis on the self esteem and positive inner confidence of children; including teenagers.  Caring for Kids is my current life focus.  I strive to be kind, tranquil, serene, and compassionate.  Hopefully, this translates into peaceful, calm and helpful.

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