When buying a life vest, look for the U. S. Coast Guard-approved label. For small children, the vest should have straps that hook under the legs to keep it from slipping over the child’s head. [4] X Research source
When he calms, little by little stop supporting his body while still holding his head. Allow him to float.
Use smooth motions. Jerky motions can hurt your child’s neck. Allow your child to rest before doing this again.
No running No horse-play No diving Swim with a buddy Stay away from drain covers and filters
Show the motions for swimming activities outside the water before getting in. You might want to address new sensations, like the sense of buoyancy that can be felt in the chest when floating, pressure in the ears, or the muffled quality of sound beneath the water.
If your child is hesitant, demonstrate this first. When you take your mouth out of the water, make sure you have a smile on your face. This will help show your child that there is nothing to be afraid of.
While doing this, have him combine blowing bubbles, kicking his legs, and swimming with his arms. This will help him start using all the motions necessary for independent swimming.
Remember to explain what you’re about to do to avoid scaring your child. Never put your child underwater unexpectedly. This will scare him and could make him afraid of the water.
If he seems hesitant, try counting to two or three to show him that he’ll only be under the water for a very short time. It may make your child more comfortable if you go under first. Remember to smile and laugh when you come back up so he knows there’s nothing to be afraid of.
Have fun while learning the Dog Paddle by searching for videos of dogs swimming online.
In the event he has the unpleasant experience of getting water up his nose, respond appropriately. Give him warm encouragement by saying things like, “That happens sometimes. It’s OK!”
Make sure you follow closely, especially if he isn’t wearing a life vest.
When he rotates onto his stomach, have him swim to the side of the pool.
Freestyle: Do Three Basic Strokes while Swimming Breaststroke: Swim Breaststroke Efficiently Backstroke: Do Three Basic Strokes while Swimming Sidestroke: Swim the Sidestroke
