toddler swimming with dad

Whether you’re heading for the pool, the beach or just a garden inflatable, keep the below in mind…

IN THE POOL

• They swim, you swim.

Always get in the water with your child. And keep her within arm’s reach, even if she’s wearing water wings or some other floatation device.

• Teach ‘walk, don’t run’.

Don’t allow small children to run around the pool edge. Poolsides are inevitably wet, making it all too easy for your little one to slip and fall in.

ON THE SEASHORE

• Watch the waves.

Teach your child never to stand on the waterline with her back to sea. A sudden or bigger-than-normal wave could knock her over.

BY THE PADDLING POOL

• Stay close.

The water may be shallow, but, scarily, a child can drown in just 2cm of water.

• Tip it up when you’re done.

And store the paddling pool upside down (so it can’t fill up with rainwater later).

Need some practical toddler swimwear? Check our gallery of the best baby beach gear...

Taking your baby swimming for the very first time? Be prepared with our guide on how and when to get started. Click here...