Water Safety Tips for Children This Summer
Summer is the perfect season for water play, but it’s essential to prioritise safety, especially for children. At Young Academics, we incorporate water safety awareness into our programs, helping children learn through play while ensuring their well-being.
Here are some tips for keeping children safe around water this summer:
1. Active Supervision
Children should never be left unattended around water, whether at a pool, beach, or even a paddling pool. Always ensure a responsible adult is present and actively watching, free from distractions like mobile phones.
2. Water Safety Education
Teaching children about water safety early is critical. At Young Academics, we integrate learning opportunities into activities, teaching children to respect water and understand simple rules like not running near pools or entering water without supervision.
3. Secure Pool Areas
For families with pools, ensuring that fencing and gates comply with safety regulations is non-negotiable. Check for self-closing gates and sturdy barriers to prevent unsupervised access.
4. Appropriate Flotation Devices
Ensure children who cannot swim use well-fitted, approved life jackets. Avoid reliance on inflatable toys or floaties, as these are not safety devices.
5. CPR Skills for Parents
Emergencies can happen despite precautions. Knowing CPR is invaluable and could save a life. Consider taking a certified course to boost your confidence in responding to water-related incidents.
6. Hydration and Sun Protection
Long hours in the sun can lead to dehydration and sunburn. Encourage regular water breaks and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect delicate skin. At Young Academics, we teach children to stay hydrated and practice sun safety as part of our outdoor activities.
7. Create Safe Water Play Zones
For younger children, consider shallow water play options such as splash pads or supervised paddling pools. At our centres, we prioritise safe environments for water play, offering age-appropriate activities that encourage exploration without compromising safety.
8. Swimming Lessons
Enrolling your child in swimming lessons helps them build confidence and learn essential skills. While Young Academics focuses on play-based learning, we encourage parents to consider lessons for skill development in and around water.
9. Emphasise Safety Rules
Teach children rules such as never swimming alone, staying within shallow areas, and swimming only in designated zones. At Young Academics, we reinforce these messages through fun and interactive learning sessions.
By following these tips and fostering awareness, you can create a safe and enjoyable summer for your family. At Young Academics, we’re committed to providing a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and explore—even during water play.
Sources:
- https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Water_Safety/
- https://www.kingswim.com.au/top-tips-for-swimming-safely-this-summer/
- https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/stay-safe-active/locations/water-safety-at-home
- https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/about/campaigns-and-programs/Water-Safety
- https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/swim.html
- https://jumpswimschools.com.au/summer-water-safety-tips-rivers-lakes/
- https://www.safekids.org/watersafety