Better Off Wet Winter 2016

FLORIDA LIFESTYLE
When on the water,
safety first
is the rule.
Formal introductions to swimming
can begin as early as six months of age.
“Water babies” techniques stress basic
survival skills such as floating and
grabbing the poolside that can save a
life. Parents also learn an important lesson—babies
can swallow lots of water
during these classes. Also, come prepared
with extra waterproof pampers.
Around 3-4 years of age, swim classes
help tots become more comfortable in
the water and teach basic swimming
skills, but stay within an arm’s length of
toddlers when in or near water. It’s likely
to take a few more years before they
become good swimmers.
Sparking kids’ interests in the great
outdoor Florida waterways can include
a variety of activities that stimulate
imagination and foster fascination.
Coloring books, toy boats, movies like
Finding Nemo, and trips to an aquarium
can encourage eager appetites. Books
about marine life that help kids identify
specific marine species are instructive
which enables them to appreciate native
plants and animals and to identify
and avoid jellyfish, eels, and other critters.
Safety is the first rule when on the water.
Life jackets are not only a good
idea on the water but are required by
law when boating. Learn about how to
properly fit children with life vests, critical
to their safety, by visiting the U.S.
Coast Guard site at www.coastguardfoundation.org.
While children should
wear life vests at all times, it’s a good
idea to teach them how to don and secure
vests in the event of an unexpected
emergency.
Any responsible boat skipper knows
the potential hazards of boating, so
pass knowledge on to your youngsters,
and orient them to water sports carefully.
Set specific rules. Explain the
reasons for these rules to help them
understand and comply. A young mind
absorbs content like a sponge soaking
up knowledge. Take the opportunity to
teach them safe and responsible behavior
on the water.
Enlist older children as deck mates.
Involvement in activities teaches skills
they’ll use later as adults. Let them help
with tasks such as dropping boat fenders
or “tying off.” Practice safety measures
such as “man overboard” drills,
and involve kids in drill activities such
as tossing a life ring. Teach them to tie
knots; a skill that comes in handy for
fishing and boating.
Speaking of fishing: a great way to introduce
kids to fishing is to outfit them
with kid-friendly gear. Look for no-tangle
rods and reels, plastic safety hooks,
and fish and cartoon characters sponge
32 BETTER OFF WET | WINTER 2016