If you have a pool on your property and also have young children, then it is extremely important to make sure that your kids are able to swim. However, it can be pretty nerve wracking to teach children at first, especially when they are under 5 years old. If you want to start early, then you will need to make sure that your child can stay afloat in the water without much difficulty. Keep reading to learn about some tips to help with this.

Skip The Floaties

Arm floaties are a standard accessory for many pools. However, they really are not a great choice if you are trying to teach your children how to swim. The floaties keep your child in a vertical position. However, a horizontal body is necessary to remain afloat on the water. 

Not only do the arm floaties keep the body in a poor body position, but they also create a false sense of security. Instead of these devices, look for ones that encourage a horizontal position like float belts, back floats, bar floats, and kick boards. Kick boards are especially helpful and often used during swim training, but small children often have trouble gripping them properly. Look for ones with included handle holes or grips in the board. Also, purchase the boards made for children. They are smaller, lighter, and easier to use than adult varieties. 

Pool noodles are a good accessory as well. Help your child position the noodle along the chest and underneath the armpits for proper floating posture. 

Teach Back Floating

There are a few simple techniques to learn when first starting to swim that include dog-paddling, treading water, and how to float. Floating on the back is an essential skill that allows children to remain calm and in control if they start to feel distressed. 

If you want to teach your child how to float on their back, stand behind your child and place your hands just underneath their armpits. Ask your son or daughter to slowly lift their legs up towards the surface of the water. Slowly move your hands to support your child's head. 

Have your child move their arms to the side and then tell them to gently arch their back. Remove your hands from their supportive position and direct your son or daughter to gently bend the knees and to use small kicking motions to keep the body upright. 

If your child cannot get the hang of floating, then purchase either a back float or foam arm floats that can rest underneath the arms.

If you want to know more about helping your child learn to swim, speak with a dedicated swim professional and schedule swimming lessons.

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