You guys know that I’m all about hanging by the water.
While my love for the water stems from growing up in Michigan, I think a strong love for water and the joy it brings could very well be an integral part of humanity. We’re made up of the element, after all!
But one thing that’s not often talked about in regards to the water is safety. Especially now that I have kids, I’ve become hyper aware of all things safety in regards to the water, because I can’t imagine anything worse than something bad happening to my family.
Insert: Swim Lessons at Goldfish Swim School
Once a week, every week, the girls go to Goldfish Swim School. They’ve been taking lessons for a few months now and it’s amazing to watch skills develop in the water.
Grace can already swim on her own and hold her breath under water, and Josephine can pull herself up onto the side of the pool. While they both clearly have many more swim lessons in their future until they’re at a place where I’d feel comfortable with them near the water, the fact that they’re learning important skills for water safety certainly makes me breathe easier while we’re on vacation or by the lake.
With the official start of summer just around the corner, I thought it’d be a timely topic to share some of the water safety tips that Goldfish has shared with me! As parents, we can never be too careful, especially when it comes to our kid’s safety.
W – “Wear a life jacket”
Realize that floaties, noddles and plastic inner tubes do NOT protect against drowning. They are created as water toys, not life-saving devices. The U.S. Coast Guard has approved life jackets that can be worn while swimming or boating to keep you safe.
A – “Act. Throw but don’t go!”
If you see someone in trouble in the water, throw an item for them to grab onto but NEVER jump in yourself, because you could be putting both of you in danger.
T – “Take Swim Lessons”
For anyone who doesn’t know how to swim, lessons help to keep you safe. Swim lessons are the best way to ensure you and your family stay safe! Plus, fun fact, did you know that the American Academy of Pediatrics recently revisited its drowning prevention guidelines and recommends starting swimming lessons at age one? This is something that’s applicable to every child and every family.
E – “Educate”
The key to swim safety is knowing essential skills like treading water and rolling over to float and catch a breath. With education about swim safety, you’ll be prepared if something unexpected happens.
R – “Follow the rules”
Pay attention to posted rules and signage — listen to lifeguards, parents, coaches — the rules, and adults in charge, are there to keep everyone safe.
I hope these tips are as helpful for you and your family and they are for ours! Cheers to practicing safety near the water this summer.
Want a shot at winning a year of free swim lessons for one child with Goldfish Swim School? Take a selfie showing your swimming skills in action, share it on Instagram and/or Facebook, and use the hashtags #WATERSelfieGSS and #GoldfishSwimSchool to enter for your chance at winning!
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This post was sponsored by Goldfish Swim School, however all opinions are my own. Thank you for Thank you for helping to support the brands that sponsor Isn’t That Charming!
