How to introduce your child to the pool, Imperial Pool Builders offer advice

Before you can teach your child to swim, you need to get her comfortable with the idea of the pool. If your child loves his bath, then he just might take to the pool like a fish to water! Remember, though a swimming pool is bigger, and could be scarier, than a bathtub so take it easy when introducing your child to the pool. The swimming pool contractors from Imperial Pool Builders offer tips on how to introduce your child to the pool.

Taking it slow and being patient will pay off when you and your children spend hours in the swimming pool together.

How to introduce your child to the pool

Plan to spend several hours, days or even weeks, getting your child comfortable in the pool. Slowly ease them in and get them comfortable in the water. A great way to bring your child into the water is to hug her and walk into the shallow end of the water. Holding him close and easing into the water will make him feel safe.

After you’re in the water, jump up and down a bit. Splash with your hands. Let your child associate water with fun. After he’s comfortable, hold him under his arms and walk around the water, letting his legs float free.

Again, work your way slowly up to more water fun. After your child is comfortable, let him hang onto the side of the pool and blow bubbles into the water. When you’re doing this you’re getting her comfortable with putting her face in the water. If you do it first, she will probably try to copy you. She may gasp for air at first, but don’t fuss or that could scare her. Make everything a game.

Following this move onto having your child jump to you in the water. Take her to the side of the pool, stand a few feet away and hold your arms out to her and let her jump to you. Catch him. Don’t let him go underwater and eventually that will be a new game for him to explore!

Take time with these steps. Don’t scare your child or it could take months to undo the damage fear caused. Spend several weeks getting your baby comfortable in the swimming pool. You may want to consider swimming lessons too. Don’t forget to keep safety devices on hand every time you are in the pool.

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