How to Help a Child Overcome Fear of Swimming

Isolate the core issue. Have the child tell you precisely what he is afraid of. It could be something as simple as water going up his nose, or it could be the serious fear of drowning. Finding out what you are dealing with helps you plan your next steps. For example, buying him some nose plugs can help with a fear of water up his nose.

Practice at home. Have her practice splashing water on her face while in the bathtub. Encourage her to hold her breath and put her face in the water for a second or two in the tub. As she builds confidence, let her know that doing it in a pool or lake is not much different than in the tub.

Start small. Minimizing his feelings by forcing him into the deep end of the pool is sure to backfire. Instead, take him to some wading pools and splash around with him there. Gradually move to pools that have walk-in edges; they start flat with the ground and slowly get deeper as he walks further in. If pools are not available, choose a lake with a similar sloping entrance. Go in as far as ankle height water, and splash and play. As he gets used to each depth, move it just a bit at a time so he gradually accepts deeper water.

Lead by example. Show her how fun swimming can be. Let her see you enjoying the water, swimming and feeling comfortable with your abilities. Assure her there was a time you had to learn how to swim and that she can do it, too.

Encourage him without pressure. Pushing him too far, too soon, may increase his fear. Move him in the right direction by having him around water as often as possible so he sees other children having fun, and gently remind him that he, too, can have fun by learning to swim.

Hire a professional. If her concerns cause you stress, she will feel it. Hiring a professional who works with fearful children may get her into the water more quickly than you trying to teach her yourself.