GET IT MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
Having your baby or young child attend a drowning prevention program should be your priority as a parent. Children need to develop a healthy respect of the water, as well as skills that will assist their confidence and ability in the pool.
Your 'Under 5' can attain a high degree of Independent Drowning Prevention Skills which allow them to enjoy the water and all the activities they can do in it. Start them young because you can even achieve this with toddlers if they are taught the right way.
Below is a checklist for your child to see where they are at in their Independent Drowning Prevention Skills, so you can address any areas where their skills lack.
These skills are all taught in good Drowning Prevention programs. Two lessons per week, with no breaks, is necessary to see results. Start as young as possible so you leave nothing to chance! Six months old is a perfect age to commence. The earlier a child is taught these skills, the safer and more confident they will be around aquatic environments.
Children, in particular those under five years of ag, are the most vulnerable people in our population at risk of drowning. Don't wait until they are at school! And remember, nothing prevents drowning like adult supervision!
Can Your Child...
- FLOAT INDEPENDENTLY for 30 seconds or more in rough water?
- Paddle independently, rolling onto their backs to float?
- Swim without floaties or back bubbles?
- Swim and lift their head to breath?
- Jump into a pool - and paddle independently back to the side of the pool?
- Tread water with their head above water?
- Comfortably swim dressed in clothes and shoes? (Children need to experience the feeling of being in the water with the extra weight of being fully clothed).
