Teaching Your 2-Year-Old To Swim: Tips And Tricks

Introduction

Swimming is a fun and healthy activity for people of all ages. It’s never too early to start teaching your child how to swim. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting swim lessons as early as 1 year old. In this article, we will focus on teaching your 2-year-old how to swim. We will provide you with some tips and tricks to make the process easy and enjoyable for both you and your child.

Getting Started

The first step in teaching your 2-year-old to swim is to get them comfortable in the water. Start by taking them to a pool or a shallow body of water, like a baby pool, and let them play and splash around. Encourage them to put their face in the water and blow bubbles. You can also use toys, like rubber ducks or water toys, to make the experience more enjoyable.

Swim Gear

Before you start teaching your child to swim, make sure they have the appropriate swim gear. A swim diaper is a must-have for young children who are not yet potty-trained. You can also invest in a swim vest or floaties to help your child stay afloat and feel more comfortable in the water.

Blowing Bubbles

Blowing bubbles is an important skill for young swimmers. It helps them learn to control their breath and stay calm in the water. Encourage your child to put their face in the water and blow bubbles by demonstrating it yourself. You can also make it a fun game by having a bubble-blowing contest.

Kicking and Paddling

Kicking and paddling are the basic swimming skills that your child should learn at this age. Start by holding your child under their arms and encouraging them to kick their legs. You can also have them hold onto the side of the pool and practice kicking. For paddling, hold your child’s hands and help them move their arms in a swimming motion.

Submersion

Submersion is a technique that helps your child learn to hold their breath and feel comfortable under the water. Start by counting to three and then gently submerging your child under the water. Make sure to only do this for a few seconds and always have eye contact with your child. Gradually increase the time your child spends under the water as they become more comfortable with the technique.

Back Float

Teaching your child to float on their back is an important safety skill. Start by holding your child under their back and encouraging them to relax and float. You can also use a swim vest or floaties to help your child stay afloat. As your child becomes more comfortable, gradually release your hold and let them float on their own.

Pool Safety

While teaching your child how to swim, always prioritize pool safety. Never leave your child unattended in or near the water, even for a few seconds. Teach your child to always ask for permission before entering the water and to never run around the pool. Make sure all pool gates and doors are properly secured to prevent accidental drowning.

Conclusion

Teaching your 2-year-old to swim can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your child. Start by getting them comfortable in the water and gradually introducing basic swimming skills. Always prioritize pool safety and remember to make it a fun and enjoyable experience for your child.