Some children see the pool as a dangerous place, despite watching their peers enjoy the water. Sometimes it may be a previous unpleasant experience, or there is the fear of the unknown and the new. It can be challenging to help if your child feels anxious or fearful around water. As funny as that sounds, one of the best ways to help your child overcome a fear of water is to encourage them to learn swimming. Here are some strategies to make the learning process less intimidating.
1. Acknowledge their fear
The first step in helping your child overcome his fear is to take it seriously. Avoid dismissing their fear as something unreasonable or unimportant. Instead of becoming frustrated with their hesitation to enter the water, remember that their fear is genuine. By showing empathy and understanding, you can help your child build confidence.
2. Be a model
Kids learn best through modeling, especially when parents are involved. So feel free to show your enjoyment and demonstrate how much fun you have in the pool. Express your desire for them to join you. Family playtime in the water can be very helpful too. Playing together in a shallow pool can build your child’s confidence in the water.
3. Take it slow
Overcoming a fear of water is a process that takes time. It's important not to rush your children or, worse, push them into something that scares them. Instead, gently introduce them to water, making it a fun and positive experience with games and enjoyable lessons. Support your child at every step they take, always reassuring them of your presence and encouragement.
4. Aim to make your child feel comfortable and secure in the water
When your child gathers the courage to get into the water with you, ensure they feel secure by holding them and making them comfortable. While it’s natural to feel encouraged by their progress, resist the urge to push them further. Maintaining their trust is key. Understand that for now, simply being in the water with you may be all they can handle, and it’s important to let them decide when they’re ready to move on.
5. Give your child a break
If your child becomes overwhelmed or loses interest, give them a break. Step out of the water, enjoy a snack, or play a game on land. This is important for keeping the experience positive and enjoyable, helping your child form a good association with water play.
6. Reward every milestone
It’s essential to praise each small advancement. Setting short, achievable goals and rewarding your child for their efforts can reinforce positive behavior. Positive experiences in the water can create lasting positive associations. When children enjoy their time in the water, they are more likely to develop a fondness for it. Parents can reinforce this by praising their child’s efforts and making each water experience enjoyable.
7. Sign them up for swim lessons
Enrolling your child in swimming classes carefully designed for young children can also be beneficial. At Five Star Swim School, our instructors are trained to introduce children to water in a way that is safe and enjoyable. Our Seahorse classes for the youngest swimmers (6 months - 2.5 years) incorporate games and songs that make learning to swim a fun experience and reduce any potential fear of water. If you’re interested in learning more about how we can help your child, contact us today, or stop by one of our locations to learn more about our year-round swimming lessons.
