Water Safety: Protecting Your Kids This Summer
Splash Safely: Protecting Your Kids In and Around Water
Summer is in full swing, and there’s nothing quite like cooling off with a refreshing swim. Whether it’s splashing around in the pool, floating on a lake, or running through backyard sprinklers, water activities are the ultimate way to beat the heat and spend some quality time as a family! Beyond pool days being some of your kids favorite summer activities – it’s also one of the best ways for kids to develop motor and cognitive skills ! For little ones aged 6 months to 6 years old, early water adventures help build motor skills, engage in sensory play, and foster social and emotional development.
Water activities create some of the best childhood memories. However, with drowning being a leading cause of accidental injuries in children, it’s crucial to prioritize water safety while making these lifelong memories. At Tierra Encantada, we know how important it is to keep your little ones safe while they enjoy summer adventures. Here are some tips to make sure your kiddos stay safe and have the best summer ever in and around the water.
Be a “Water Watcher” Whether you are at an at home swimming pool or a beach always stay vigilant. Drownings are often silent and can happen in as little as 30 seconds. An adult should be at arms length of infants, toddlers, and children that are weaker swimmers. Flotation devices are not a substitute for supervision. Be sure to avoid distractions when your kiddos are in and around water
Water Competency: All childrens and adults should be equipped with basic water safety skills to prevent the risk of drowning. The AAP recommends starting swim lessons as early as age 1. By taking swim lessons, infants and toddlers reduce their risk of drowning by 88%. Though swim competency never makes your child “drown proof,” learning to swim is a necessary skill.
Make sure your kiddos know these Water survival skills:
Step or jump into water over their head and return to the surface.
Turn around in the water and orient to safety.
Float or tread water.
Combine breathing with forward movement in the water.
Exit the water.
Be Prepared for Water Emergencies:
Purchase a life jacket: Be sure your child has a properly fitting life jacket that is U.S Coast Guard approved! (More information on Life Jackets Here!)
Get CPR Certified! Here are some resources for getting CPR Certified!
Performing CPR on Children/Infants
Get the family involved! Check out the Red Cross Water Safety for Kids resource to help your children learn more about water safety!
At Tierra Encantada, we understand that water play can be both exhilarating and a bit nerve-wracking for parents. By following our tips and embracing safety practices, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are prepared for all your summer adventures. Happy July to all our Tierra Encantada Families!
