Here are 5 ways to promote pool safety

1. LEARN to swim– Swimming is a life saving skill. Teach your child how to swim. Educate them on what to do if they fall in the water, how to doggy paddle, how to blow bubbles when they go under water and how to float. We always taught our girls repetitively to find the wall if they fall in so it becomes a muscle memory. If they get tired from trying to find the wall, we taught them how to float.
2. Learn CPR– The first 4-6 minutes is crucial in regards to irreversible brain damage from drowning. CPR is the most important life saving class you can take when you have kids. Once you’re CPR certified, make sure to keep your certification current for up-to-date skills. CPR classes are usually available through many hospitals, community centers, and/or by the American Red Cross.
3. Provide physical barriers– Walls, fences, barriers, alarms and covers are the first line of defense and can be lifesaving devices. In our area, a fence surrounding the back yard is required. A fence has to be at least 4 feet in hight. Doors should have self-closing, self-latching devices and locks that are too high for children to reach. Also, there should not be any openings or protrusions that a young child could use to get over, under, or through. Pool covers are also a good idea to consider while the pool is not in use. Lastly, alarms are important to utilize for your back door leading out to the pool area. There are also alarms you can purchase for in the pool that sounds when something or someone falls in water. The alarm should sound very distinct from other sounds in the home. They even have alarms now that connect to an app.
4. Drains– Stay away from pool and spa drains that can create underwater suction with enough force to trap even strong swimmers below the surface. Never enter a pool or spa that has a loose, broken or missing drain cover. Most newer pools and community pools should be regulated to have a drain cover; however, some older homes may not have this feature.
5. Provide pool rules for your children such as….Never swim alone, walk dont run, and what to do if someone get hurts and/or falls in.

It is also important to note, always watch children when they’re in or near water, and never leave them unattended.

How do you handle pool safety in your home?

1) Builds a sense of community

A village gives children the sense that they are part of a team. Children who have a strong sense of community know they belong to something bigger than themselves. A strong sense of community also helps children develop resilience when faced with obstacles in life.

2) Teach kids to respect other adults

Having other parents around and caring for your child will teach your kids to respect other house rules.  This teaches understanding and tolerance of different opinions. This is such an important life lesson.

3) Big support system

Parenting is hard! Parents and children can benefit from having a bigger support system. Sometimes you just need a break, a date night, or just some time for self-care. Its so important to have time for yourself and spouse. Having a family you can switch babysitting nights with is a life saver.

Also, when you build relationships with other parents from your village, you gain access to a plethora of important information that is happening in the school and/or community. This was almost a revelation for me. There is always that ONE mom at school that knows everything.

4) Different perspective

There are people in our lives who are just better at some things than others. I am stubborn and independent so having to turn to other people for advice or help is a struggle. I feel almost like a failure, but as much as we like to think, we don’t know everything. Having friends who are in different fields can give an interesting perspective or approach to certain situations. You can gain access to a wider perspective of opinions and attitudes. Maybe offering new ways to deal with a sleepless infant or toddler tantrums. Your kids may also learn new skills and try new activities they normally would not at home.

5) Other people love your kid(s)

Its always a good idea for your kids to learn there are other people in this world other than their parents or immediate family that love them and support them. People who just genuinely enjoy having your kid around.

So how do I find my village?

An easy way to find your own little village is to seek friendship with other parents at the playground, school, after school activities (sports, dance, etc), and your neighbors. Nourish those friendships by organizing a get-together among a small group of parents. You will thank me later.