A lot of children fear water when they first start swimming. Being in the water is brand new to them, so it’s inevitable that they’d be a bit wary of it. Children who aren’t scared usually start from a very young age, even before they’re 1.

Be patient. The key thing is to make sure that they're comfortable with you. Let them know that it is okay to be scared.

Make sure they have the right equipment. Even if most children their age don’t need it, floating equipment such as water wings, armbands and floats can give your child that much-needed confidence to go into the water.

Whilst babies can certainly come into the water from any age, it’s not recommended to start formal swimming lessons until at least 1 year old. If you have an older child, consider going into the pool with them a few times before booking any formal lessons.

Study/Text Title	Authors	Publication
Thompson, F., & Goodman, J. (2009)	Thompson, F. & Goodman, J.	The International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education, 3(3), 263-274
Stallman, R. K., & Koh, K. T. (2016)	Stallman, R. K. & Koh, K. T.	International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education, 10(3), 1-16
Sheridan, S. M., & Kratochwill, T. R. (Eds.) (2008)	Sheridan, S. M. & Kratochwill, T. R.	Conjoint behavioral consultation: Promoting family-school connections and interventions
American Academy of Pediatrics (2019)	American Academy of Pediatrics	Pediatrics, 143(5), e20190850