Planning to spend your summer by the water? It’s so important to make sure your kids stay safe! We’ve pulled together some tips to keep your holidays
• Lessons – make sure that your child is booked into lessons and can complete at least one full term before any major trips involving swimming.
• Skill level – make sure you get regular updates on your child’s skill level, particularly before heading off on your trip. You can also find out if there are things that you can help your child practice over the break.
• Confidence – find out how confident your child is around the water. The Royal Life Saving has a collection of resources related to safety on beaches and rivers.
• Support – if your child isn’t confident around the water, be ready to gently support and encourage them.
• Communication – make sure that friends and family are familiar with your child’s ability level.
• Supervision – children must be closely watched at all times when in the water.
• Protection – make sure your child is protected from the sun with water safe sunscreen. Remember to reapply every few hours.
• Energy and hydration – swimming can be exhausting, so make sure you have a supply of food and drink ready for your child. This will also held your child avoid the dangers of dehydration.
Most importantly have fun with your children! Enjoy your summer by the water. Anne Brown, who is a mother of four and manager at Kingswim Swim School, knows all about swimming over summer. “These special family moments are why it’s so important to provide every member of the family with the skills to have a safe and enjoyable holiday that’s memorable for the right reasons,” she says.
