SWIMMING IN floatation, especially for children under the age of 5, teaches them the position of drowning. They feel like they are "swimming" independently when in actuality if they did not have that floatation they would quickly sink to the bottom. It also increases the likelihood that they will jump into the water without their floaties on and without proper supervision because they quickly become over-confident in water with floatation on. With products marketed toward us everywhere and many parents not being aware of this it can be hard to believe. Please don't hesitate to ask us more questions. Properly fitted, US coast guard approved life vests are an important layer of protection on boats and even around water but should not be used as a swimming aid. Here is an article with more details about it as well a all too common drowning scenario that can happen due to floatation:
Constant Eyes On (C.E.O.)
Nothing can take the place of active supervision around the water.
C.E.O. just like that of a company this is very important. Constant Eyes On. We all know this is vital around the water. No floatation device or amount of skill can replace supervision. Yet most drownings happen when one or both parents are present.
However, let's be real. Constant Eyes On isn't something that is realistic but it is something to strive for. Something to not actively seek replacements for but to find ways to improve especially when around the water. Here are some ideas:
Phones and devices, just admit it we are all addicted. Have it close enough to use in emergency but far enough it doesn't distract you when your child is in the water (bathtub to pool).
Get in the water with the kids and be no more than an arms length away until they are old/skilled enough to be embarrassed by it.
Get towels and everything necessary for baths set up before putting your child in the tub. Bathtubs are the most common body of water for children 1 and under to drown in.
Be aware. Diffusion of responsibility is a psychological term that means we falsely assume that because more people are around more people are watching when in reality the opposite is true. More people means more distractions for everyone and in fact an accident is more likely.
COVID-19 Coloring Activity!
We may be land-locked but we can still have some fun! Post pics of colored pages and tag #montanainfantswim (on IG or Facebook) to participate and we will highlight some of our favorites on our social media. Extra kudos if your post includes your 8pm Howl for Healthcare Workers enthusiasm;-)
