07/30/2026
Puddle Jumpers are popular because they give children confidence in the water. Unfortunately, that confidence is often misplaced.
The biggest concern isnât that they keep a child afloat. Itâs how they keep a child afloat.
A Puddle Jumper holds a child in a nearly vertical position with their head above the water. While that seems helpful, itâs the exact opposite of the body position needed for independent swimming and self-rescue. Children can begin to associate water with remaining upright, rather than learning to roll onto their back, float, breathe, and move efficiently.
Another concern is that children who regularly wear flotation devices may begin to believe they are always capable of entering the water safely. They often donât understand that the flotation device - not their own abilities - is what is keeping them afloat. If they enter the water without it, the outcome can be tragic.
Bring me your Puddle Jumper (or similar flotation device) and receive a discount on lessons!