16/06/2026
This is always a hot topic so let's talk about it --
Parents often rely on floatation devices as a substitute for learning how to swim OR simply because they don't want to get in the water & still want their kids to have fun at the pool. Safety should always come first, right?
"I have too many kids, I'm outnumbered."
-- Again, safety first. If you're outnumbered and your solution is to use floaties for your children then don't go to the pool/open water. There are a multitude of alternatives that will keep your children safe. Splash pads, water balloons, sprinklers, super soakers, blow up water slides. Yes it's hot and yes everyone loves to enjoy the water during this time of year BUT don't stack the odds against yourself.
"My kid is afraid, they have anxiety."
-- Again, safety first. A large body of water is often intimidating to children who deal with anxiety and putting a floatie on them is not the answer. Start small, a hot tub, a swim spa, or a shallow entry. Somewhere where they can touch, feel, experience the water at their true skill level. Maybe they are afraid to go under? Maybe they can't swim at all? Maybe they hate water in their ears and eyes? Whatever it may be if you want to break down the barriers, start small. Also, get in and be an example. Show them they can put their face in, show them they can go under. Build their confidence so a big body of water isn't so daunting.
"I can't afford swimming lessons."
- Again, safety first. How is this related to safety? Well, I hate to break it to you but financial stability does in fact make most people feel safe. Don't bleed yourself dry, instead make this simple change. Get in the pool with your kid(s)! Nothing is going to help them learn faster than you getting in and exploring the water with them. Infant? Get a mesh water sling or a float they can sit ON not IN. Toddlers? Grab some rubber duckies and play on the stairs. Small children? Dive sticks! Big kids? Water footballs, water frisbees, water polo, water volleyball. There are soooo many options for you to explore, together!
The take away is a simple rule of thumb. 👍
IF THEY CANT SWIM YOU SHOULD GET IN. 💦
‼️Always use a PFD when on a moving watercraft or in open bodies of water. ⛵🚤🌊🛟
🙅♀️Please don't comment that puddle jumpers worked for your kid(s). That's great! I'm elated your child didn't become a statistic. But just remember it is a fact that every single time you click a puddle jumper on your child's body you are increasing their chance of drowning during non-swim times.
Thanks for coming to my Ted talk. ISR Mermaids 🧜♀️
