If you’re just starting out, or you want to reinforce the activities learned in your swimming lesson, bath time is a great place to start building confidence.
At home, in lovely warm water, you can introduce your child to the fundamental experiences of being in water.
Develop water confidence early
Many children become anxious about being splashed or putting their face in water. Much of this anxiety has to do with confidence and you can build this up yourselves at home.
If your child is nervous of water, don’t worry – they’re not the first and it’s a very natural reaction. Developing water confidence can be fun and it’s something you should enjoy together.
Commit to playing in water regularly and practice with lots of games and, in time, your child will associate water with a positive sense of fun.
Focus on your smile!
First things first, put your own anxieties to one side and focus on your smile! Children follow your example and as you know, your child will look to you to see what to do next.
Laugh or cry, your reaction will affect their response – so lots of smiles and congratulations! If children are unexpectedly splashed, it will take just milliseconds to choose whether they are going to cry or not. A quick move on your part, and a change of direction: a toy or activity and lots of positive reinforcement, will redirect their focus.
Regular water play – it makes such a difference
Children need to feel safe and discover the water for themselves. Their apprehension is healthy so don’t force an activity if you sense any fear or tension. Instead, develop their interest by having fun yourself! Your child will (eventually!) follow your lead.
With each little success they will realise they are capable of achieving much more. Praise, giggle or make a fool of yourself to get them laughing!
Top 3 bath time games to build water confidence
Blowing bubbles
Making bubbles in the bath water – blowing out into the water and making lots of silly noises!
