Five Swimming Safety Tips to Teach Your Children

Teaching your children about proper safety when going swimming at the beach or even at the pool during a fun family vacation getaway can literally be a lifesaver. Before letting your little ones free to run and play on the beach or around a pool, talk to them about these proper safety tips. However, always remember that no safety tip given to your children will replace constant supervision while they go swimming. Adults must always be close by with a watchful eye in case of an emergency.

Babies

While it may seem like common sense to many, it must be said that babies should only be introduced to the pool or beach for very short dips starting at six months. It's important to start extremely slow and keep in mind baby's very sensitive skin. Always apply an SPF of at least 30 or greater to all of your children before letting them step out in the sun.

Swimming Safety Education

When you feel it's the right time for your child, enrollment in a swim class will be very beneficial. Here they will learn to kick, paddle, and blow bubbles. They will learn a variety of swimming strokes and these classes also include safety training. Many pools have designated areas for children. Make sure your children stay within these designated areas and remind them not to go beyond them. Don't allow children to run on concrete areas that may be wet. They could slip and fall, leading to serious injury.

1)Discuss currents in oceans with your children. Swimming in a pool is quite different than swimming at the beach, as the changing currents and tides of the ocean can vary at a moment's notice, while a pool is calm and still.

2) Have each child buddy up with another child. Every child should have a swim buddy at all times and look out for one another. Teach your children to get out of the ocean water if the tides or currents become too strong.

3) While swimming aids such as "floaties",water wings, noodles, and "donuts" can be helpful toys in the pool, never rely upon them to keep your child from drowning. Teach your child this. In addition, keep watch that should the water wings or other toys become deflated, you can reinflate them immediately.

4) Teach your children to entire the water gradually and if it feels too cold, don't go in. Body temperature can drop much more quickly in water and it's important to avoid water that feels too cold, as well as to limit time in cooler temperatures of water.

5) Tell your children to frequently take breaks to get water, a snack, or go to the bathroom. It's important to ensure that children stay hydrated while swimming, as dehydration could lead to drowning or fainting because the children may begin to feel weak while swimming or pass out from the combination of the hot sun and lack of fluids.

About the Author: George is a guest contributor from Seaside Vacations, a North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals company.