What is the best way to teach a roally young child to swim?
By Chysom Scott
@CJscott (4187)
Portage La Prairie, Manitoba
March 29, 2009 11:29am CST
I am the very proud father of a just about two year old. I take him to the swimming pool on a regular basis, so that he is used to the water. He absolutely loves his time in the water. However, a little too much I would say, as he constantly tries to walk in farther then he can stand, and doesn't quite comprehend how to stay afloat of his own volition as of yet. To remedy this, I got him a inner tube t-shirt lets say, but I don't know how effective this device will be on teaching him to swim, although it is very effective on not letting him go under, which I had the mis-fortune to be involved with one day, and do not relish it happening again. So anyways I was wondering what you mylotters think is the best technique for teaching the young to swim? When he is in his tube, I very much encourage him to kick his feet, it lets him move around in the deeper water, albeit very slowly.
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3 responses
@standbymeforever (887)
• Australia
22 Apr 10
I think it would be best to take him to swimming lessons. You could also get him some inner tubes or floaties whatever and make sure you are present at the lessons at least for the first few times to show him support and make sure he doesnt get frightened or anything. Good luck with it!
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@CJscott (4187)
• Portage La Prairie, Manitoba
25 Apr 10
We opted for the lessons. He is fearless though. The floaties help a little.
With Appreciation.
@Pigglies (9329)
• United States
29 Mar 09
I'd recommend taking him to swimming lessons where he can learn at his level. Children often learn just to kick first, so arm floaties or a floating shirt should be fine if he can still kick. Have him wear that and just try kicking around next time you go swimming together.
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@Canellita (12029)
• United States
29 Mar 09
Get him some floaties or one of those vests that is inflated and will keep him from sinking. Teach him to kick his legs and tread water. Let him practice putting his face in the water and holding his breath. (Maybe he should practice holding his nose and holding his breath out of the water first.) There are a lot of products to keep kids afloat as they learn to swim. Maybe take him to places that have shallow pools for children where he can practice.
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