Swimming is one of my favorite activities, and I can’t remember a summer that I haven’t been near a pool, a water park or rafting down a river. But this summer has me a little nervous – I have a mobile toddler.
My 19-month-old loves water. Whether it’s in the bathtub, jumping in puddles or wading in a toddler pool, he’s definitely not afraid of it. His water confidence make me wonder when is it a good time to get him started in swim lessons and what are some good tips for keeping him safe around water this summer?
Drowning rates have fallen steadily, but that drowning continues to be the second leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 19, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Toddlers and teenage boys are at greatest risk.
“Children ages 1 to 4 may be at a lower risk of drowning if they have had formal swimming lessons,” says Alissa McKinley, children’s injury prevention coordinator for Safe Kids Treasure Valley. “But the decision should be made by the parent based on the child’s development readiness.”
And just because your child is taking lessons, that doesn’t mean your child will be safe in and around water. McKinley says that swim programs and lessons should never be seen as “drown proofing” a child of any age.
So what do parents need to do to ensure their child’s safety?
Roaring Springs Waterpark spokeswoman Tiffany Quilici says parental supervision is key.
“We have 30 to 40 lifeguards on duty every day, but we still depend on parents to watch their children,” she says. “People don’t realize how fast a child can drown and how silent it is.”
Quilici also discourages the use of flotation devices like water wings because they provide a false sense of security.
“They don’t provide children the safety they need,” she says.
At Roaring Springs, lifejackets can be worn if they are U.S. Coast Guard approved. The park has them available for swimmers at no charge. If your child has a swim suit with a built-in flotation device, those are not Coast Guard approved and are not allowed on some of the attractions.
Alissa McKinley with Safe Kids Treasure Valley has some additional tips:
- Always actively watch children when they are in or near water. Never leave children alone.
- Teach children to listen and respect the life guards on duty. They are there to keep them safe.
- Inexperienced swimmers should be within arm’s reach of an adult when they are in the water.
- Be a “water watcher” (responsible adult who is only focused on supervising the children). If possible, take turns with other adults you are with to make sure someone is focused on where the kids are playing.
- Know CPR and Heartsaver First Aid (AED training)
Also, here are safety tips for home pools and hot tubs and open water.
Do you have any tips or advice? When did you enroll your child in swimming lessons and what do you do to keep your kids safe around water?
