Tips on Submersion for Babies and Tots

The dunking dilemma... should you and how do you dunk your children underwater. Through my time as a swim instructor, I’ve seen this task plaster a look of fear on the faces of parents and children alike. However it doesn’t have to be a scary thing. In fact it can be a positive one as long as you catch it before the fear stage.

First disclaimer: I don’t suggest doing this to any child who is 3 or older. By age 3 children usually have already made their minds up about being scared of putting their face in the water or not. At this point you need more gentle persuasion.

Second disclaimer: Make sure your child is comfortable in the water before moving on to submersion.

I’ve taught many parent and tot classes for children ages 2 and under and this age group is the ideal time for teaching children being underwater is a positive thing. It can by pass the fear all together if done correctly. You can use your strong relationship and understanding of your child to ensure they have positive experience. 

 Here are 5 tips for safely dunking your kids.

1) Only dunk your children if they are having a good time and are in a good mood. NEVER dunk your child if they are crying or scared. This will cause them to associate being underwater with negativity.

2) Don’t be jerky with your dunking. Make it a quick but smooth dunk. Jerky dunking can be very shocking for children. In fact, I bet you wouldn’t want anyone doing that to you!

3)Keep them moving. Moving your child head first through the water in an upside-down rainbow pattern (or a smile shape). This will inhibit the water from getting in their nose and mouth. 

4) Go under water with them. Demonstrating to your child how much fun going underwater is will help them become more comfortable with it.

5) Smile. When you come back up make sure you have the biggest smile, your being very positive and try generating a lot of excitement about what just happened. Games and songs are a great way of doing this as well. This will cause your child to associate going underwater with fun.