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I’ve been part of a mom’s group ever since Liam was a baby. At first, it started as a way to get the kids together for some socialization. Now that the kids are all heading into kindergarten, we met up mostly for mama time while the kids do whatever five year olds typically do when they get together. One of my friends is trying to coordinate the annual “brave mama” trip to Lake Erie. And honestly? I’m not feeling very brave. Taking my kids around water is intimidating. Thankfully, our friends over at Goldfish Swim School do a really good job and helping Liam learn about swim safety and what to do in an emergency.
Don’t forget about sun safety! This is our favorite sunscreen for kids.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recently updated their recommendations for drowning prevention. Since we’re heading into spring break time and summer vacations, I thought it would be important to share some water safety tips on the blog again. Lisa Armitage, owner of Goldfish Swim Schools here in Columbus explains water safety in a way that’s easy for kids to remember:
W– Wear Your Life Jacket: This is one of the easiest ways to increase safety in the water. There are plenty of different types of life jackets to fit all sizes – pay attention to proper fit.
A– Act. Throw! Don’t go:Do your kids know what to do in a swimming emergency? They should ACT! Their first instinct may be to go towards the person having trouble in the water. Instead, they should throw a life preserver – and don’t go! That way, they aren’t putting themselves in jeopardy as well and are truly able to help.
T– Take Swim Lessons: You can start your child in swim lessons as early as four months old where they can begin learning swim and safety skills while building character through guided play.
E– Educate. Learn Swim Safety Skills: Key water safety skills can go a long way – such as the crab walk, properly getting in and out of the pool, going under water, rolling on their back, treading water, learning different strokes.
R– Respect. Play it Cool and Follow the Rules: Rules are there for a reason, especially when it comes to rules for the pool. Walk, don’t run; make sure an adult is watching; no horseplay. Review rules together as a family before setting your kids loose to enjoy the water.
What kind of water safety tips do you practice as a family?
This post is part of our ongoing partnership with Goldfish Swim School.
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