Child Afraid To Swim? Here's How To Overcome It, Mother

Illustration of a child afraid of water (Juan Salaman/Pexels)

JAKARTA - Vacations are incomplete without swimming pools, beaches, and waterparks. Many children are very happy to play with water. However, the plan to invite children to swim will end up unhappy if it turns out that the little one does not dare to touch the water, put his feet in the pool, or even take a bath.

In fact, there are also some children who suddenly worry about being dragged by the water and even have the imagination that there are monsters under the water. If this happens to your child, here are some things you can do if your child is afraid to swim, Parenting launches, Wednesday, December 1.

Dont push

However, as Tracey Warren, a safety expert and director of Child Safe Canada, says, never force a child to swim. Use an empathetic approach when dealing with your child's fears. Calm down and don't show stress. Because, when children see it, it will only increase their own fear.

Find out the child's fears

Wendy Wisner, a parenting writer based in New York, USA, recommends talking to your child about his or her fears. This will make it easier for you to find a solution. For example, if they are afraid of getting water in their nose, you can tell them how to avoid it.

Soak in stages

So that your little one is not afraid to swim, try to make him comfortable in the water by submerging his body gradually. For example, starting with dipping your feet, then going up to your knees, waist, chest, and finally the whole body. Make the session fun by talking about funny things or stories about swimming.

Get wet together

You also have to take a bath. Try all the fun activities related to water with your little one to show that everything will be fine in the water.

Use fun equipment

Try giving them colorful swimming goggles or a life jacket with a picture of their favorite character. These objects can give them a sense of security. However, it is still necessary to pay attention to keep teaching them to swim without a life jacket as a safety training mechanism.