As your little one grows from a baby to a toddler, you might think they need more freedom when it comes to splashing about in the water. However, that doesn’t need to come at the cost of safety.

You’ll want your toddler to enjoy being in the pool, but you’ll need to be aware of all the risks and accidents that can occur. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need for your little one to stay safe whilst having fun!

Without further ado, let’s explore how you can keep your toddler safe in the water.

How can I keep my toddler safe in the water?

Here are some great tips for water safety when it comes to toddlers:

Stay alert at all times. Even if there are lifeguards present, they are supposed to be minding the whole pool, not just your child. Keep your eyes on them at all times.

Use touch supervision. Always keep your child within arm's length. This way if they’re having trouble swimming, they can hold you. If they’re in the water, you should be in the water too. If you need to get out, they should come with you as well.

Discourage your child from swallowing pool water. Even if it seems funny to them, pool water is not meant to be swallowed in large amounts. It could make your toddler ill.

Make sure all the adults in your group are aware of your child. When there are a few adults around, it can be easy to assume that someone is watching the kids. Establish clear communication with the person watching your child, and if they need a break, they should make that clear and assign someone else.

Take some swim classes. Before the age of 1, swimming lessons aren’t proven to help babies survive in water. But if your child is a toddler, these swim lessons can be helpful. Swim classes can help your child be more confident in the water, and prepare them for swimming independently when the time comes.

Use floatation equipment. Many parents use toddler swim vests, which come with adjustable floats that you can change as your toddler becomes more confident in the water. However, just because your toddler is using floatation equipment doesn’t mean you don’t need to pay attention!

If you have a pool at home, make sure it’s safe. A locking pool cover and safety fencing are essential when you have a toddler running around. The safety fencing should be climb-proof and have no gaps for little ones to squeeze through. You can also set up an alarm that can alert you if someone falls in the pool.

Keep them safe in the heat. Make sure your toddler is wearing sunscreen, preferably a child-friendly version that accounts for skin sensitivity. Sunglasses and wide-brim hats can help them keep cool on a sunny summer’s day.

How can I swim safely with my toddler?