November 2023

Just Add Water: Bathtub Basics

By: Coach Avery & MarciSwim, LLC

It is never too early to start introducing water safety to your little one. Small things during bath time can make a big difference. Here are three ways to promote water safety and establish swimming basics in the tub:

1. Practice picking up dive toys off the bottom of the tub. By picking up dive toys in the bathtub, you are reinforcing the skill of looking down while swimming and helping them learn how to maneuver in the water. Practicing this also adds a fun element to other skills like putting their face in the water, blowing bubbles, and opening their eyes underwater.

2. Practice blowing bubbles. By teaching your child how to blow bubbles, you are preventing them from breathing in water and teaching them to hold their breath while underwater. To get your kid to blow bubbles, start by asking them to first kiss the water, and then get them to exhale by comparing it to blowing out a candle or humming.

3. Practice getting their face wet. This is often a skill that young kids struggle with the most. Getting water in their eyes and ears can be overwhelming at first. That is why we recommend starting this skill in the bathtub, where your child feels safe and comfortable. If a child is hesitant to get their face wet, we often turn it into a game like “Simon Says.” (“Simon says put one ear in the water,” “Simon says put your chin in the water,” etc.) By asking them to do one thing at a time, it makes it less overwhelming and more approachable.

Bath time is the perfect way to introduce swimming in a safe and comfortable way. If you have any questions about water safety and swimming during bathtime, please email us at info@marciswim.com.