- by Admin
Water confidence is an essential life skill for children. It helps them feel safe and enjoy being in and around water. Some children may feel scared of water initially, but with patience and fun activities, they can become confident swimmers. Here are five enjoyable ways to help your little one build water confidence.
How Do I Make My Child Not Scared of Water?
Helping your child overcome their fear of water is all about patience, positivity, and playful activities. By creating a safe and enjoyable environment, you can gradually help them feel at ease in and around water.
Start Slowly
Introduce your child to water gently. Begin with a small paddling pool at home or a shallow area at the swimming pool. Let them play and explore the water at their own pace. Avoid forcing them into the water, as this can increase fear.
Use Toys and Games
One of the best ways to get your child confident in the water is by using toys. Bath toys, floating ducks, or colourful balls can make water feel like a fun playground. Throw a toy in the water and encourage your child to fetch it. This creates positive associations with water.
Stay Close
Always be within arm’s reach when your child is in the water. Your presence reassures them and builds trust. As they grow more comfortable, you can gradually let them move independently while still watching them closely.
What is Water Confidence Activity?
Water confidence activities are playful exercises that help children feel comfortable in water. These games and tasks make the experience fun and less intimidating. Here are two examples:
- Blowing Bubbles: Show your child how to blow bubbles by putting their mouth close to the water’s surface. This simple game helps them get used to water near their face, which is often a fear for beginners.
- Floating with Support: Encourage your child to float on their back with your hands supporting them. Sing a song or talk softly to make the activity enjoyable. Over time, they’ll feel more relaxed and confident.
Other Fun Water Confidence Games
Incorporating fun games into water activities can make the experience enjoyable for children and encourage them to interact with water naturally. Here are some creative water confidence games to try with your little one.
- Watering Can Play: Fill a small watering can and let your child pour water over their own arms or legs. This helps them get used to the feeling of water on their skin.
- Treasure Hunt: Scatter toys or small objects in shallow water and encourage your child to “find the treasure.” This game makes them move around and interact with the water.
- Splash Together: Show your child that it’s okay to splash and get wet. Sitting together and splashing water with your hands is a great way to help them relax.
Ready to Boost Your Child’s Water Confidence?
At Wimbledon Day Nursery, we focus on fun and engaging activities to help children feel comfortable and safe around water. Give your child the gift of confidence and joy in water. Contact Wimbledon Day Nursery today and see them thrive!