Swimming and splashing around in the water on a hot summer’s day is something that most children beg to do. Many parents look forward to the day when they can introduce their little ones to the water and the joys it holds. However, what happens when your child has a serious fear of the water or has suffered water trauma? How do you help them deal with it and learn to enjoy the water the way you do?
The first thing you as a parent should know is that a fear of the water is a very real phobia, even if your child hasn’t suffered a water trauma-related experience. If you are at the end of your rope, then read on below for a few tips to help you deal with and help your child overcome their water phobia.
Try Therapy
If you feel that your child is irrationally afraid of the water then getting therapy might be your best option. However, you need to choose the right therapist for the job. Sites like WithTherapy can help you find the best therapist to help your child overcome their fear of the water. This website can help you find a therapist that will work with you and your child to deal with whatever issues they have with water.
Install A Pool Safety Net
Making your child feel safe in the water goes a long way towards helping them overcome their fears. Installing a pool safety net can give you and your child peace of mind that they are safe when around the water. It’s also great for when you have friends with kids come over.
Pool safety nets give you the peace of mind of knowing that should you become distracted, and that is easy to do when you are having a party, that you are doing everything you can to help protect people who are around the water in your pool, especially children.
Scale It Down
Think about it. The larger the body of water, the scarier it’s going to seem to a child who is already traumatized and trying to face their fears of the water. A large body of water, such as the ocean or a lake can be overwhelming to a fearful child.
Try scaling down the water they are around. Choose a small wading pool in the beginning to build your child’s confidence, then move onto larger bodies of water when they are more comfortable.
Make Bathtime A Fun Time
The first time your child is exposed to water will be during bathtime, so use that time wisely. From toys to bubbles and from encouraging play to being silly, make bathtime super fun. Some children can’t stand to get water in their faces, so make sure to cover their faces with a cloth when you wash their hair so that you don’t get water in their eyes and discourage splashing as well to keep your little one from becoming afraid.
Keep Perspective
While having a child that is afraid of the water can be distressing for parents, it’s important to keep the whole thing in the proper perspective. It’s important to remember that all kids are different and some just have a natural aversion to the water. You didn’t do anything wrong and with the help, they will eventually get over that fear.
The best thing you can do for a child that is afraid of the water is there for them, be patient, and always let them know you love them, no matter what.
