Ways to Conquer Fear of Water - Children
Two approaches can help a child overcome fear of water and swimming: First,understand a child's specific fear so that you can work with him to overcome it. Second, provide frequent and positive exposure to all kinds of water, to let the child take chances and experience success.
Name the specific fear: Is it going under water, or maybe getting water in her eyes?
Never minimize a child's fear.
Don't cater to the fear, because this allows a child to hold onto it and use it to manipulate others. Acknowledge the child's feelings by saying, 'I know you're feeling scared, but I'd still like you to try to sit on the first step of the pool.'
Never force a child to confront a fear of swimming. If a child appears stressed about your help or advice, take a break and try again another day.
Spend time around water with no expectations of the child getting wet. Sit by the water's edge and play in the sand or stick your feet in the pool. Often a child will be enticed into the water without coaxing.
Choose a swimming program carefully. Programs should be designed for specific ages. Discuss with the instructor the child's specific fear or concern.
Observe the lessons from a distance so the child has a chance to learn to trust the instructor.
Read stories and watch movies that make playing in water fun and exciting. ('Jaws' is probably not a good choice for this!)
Do experiments with water. Let the child enjoy water and learn that some objects, including people, float.
Remember, exposure to water doesn't need to be through a formal program.
A child needs lots of positive feedback to succeed. Being specific in your praise shows that you are paying close attention to his efforts. For example, instead of saying, 'You are doing really well!' say, 'I really like the way you kick your feet.'
See yourself as your child's coach. Read your child's signs of comfort or fear and adjust what you're doing.
Finally, be a good role model and enjoy the water yourself!