How Can I Introduce A Child Who Is A New Swimmer To The Water?

Take the child by the hand and lead him in, reassuring him that it feels good. If the water is warm, 80° to 85° F., he is more likely to enjoy it.
By your showing patience and offering encouragement, even a timid child can, in time, be helped to enjoy wading and splashing around in the water. Have him practice putting his face under water and exhaling, just as he did in the bathtub. Do not minimize this step in learning to swim. It is very important that a person get used to the water, and not be afraid to get wet all over.
Another important step in learning to swim is mastering the skill of rhythmic breathing. Bobbing is one of the best methods of learning this. Tell the person to hold your hand, or the edge of the pool. Then have him take a deep breath, dip straight down below the water, blow out through his nose, and come up. Have him do it slowly as you give the directions: "Breathe deeply, dip down, blow out, come up for air."

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The important thing is if you are unfamiliar with how you are going to introduce your child or are scared that your child will be traumatized for life after your "introduction". I suggest that you go to your local swim club and let your child take lessons with one of the professionally trained staff who are probably more familiar.

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