From Fear to Fun

Helping Your Child Dive Into Water Sensory Play

Water play can be an enriching and delightful experience for children, offering numerous sensory and developmental benefits. However, for some kids, the thought of getting wet can be intimidating or downright scary. If your child is fearful of water, don’t worry – with patience and the right approach, you can help them overcome their fear and start enjoying water play. Here are some activities and tips to gently introduce your child to water in a fun and supportive way.

1. Start Small and Gradual

Introduce your child to water play gradually, starting with small and less intimidating activities.

• Water Sensory Bins: Fill a shallow bin with a small amount of water and add some favorite toys. Encourage your child to play with the toys, getting their hands wet in the process.

• Playing with Sponges: Use colorful sponges to dab and squeeze water onto different surfaces. This can be done in the kitchen, on a table, or in the garden.

• Splashing with a Cup: Fill a plastic cup with water and let your child gently pour it on their hands, feet, or even a favorite toy.

2. Make Bath Time Fun

Transform bath time into a playful and enjoyable experience.

• Bath Toys: Introduce fun and engaging bath toys like rubber ducks, boats, and water squirters. Let your child pick out their favorites.

• Bubbles and Colors: Add bubble bath or bath crayons to make the water colorful and exciting. Blowing bubbles in the water can also be a fun distraction.

• Parental Involvement: Get in the tub with your child if possible. Seeing you enjoy the water can be reassuring and encourage them to do the same.

Shining STAR Rexlynn is so excited to play with bubbles

3. Interactive Water Games

Turn water play into a game to make it more engaging and less intimidating.

• Water Painting: Give your child a paintbrush and a cup of water to "paint" on the sidewalk, fence, or even on the side of the bathtub.

• Sink or Float: Gather various household items and let your child guess which ones will sink or float when placed in water.

• Fishing Game: Create a fishing game with toy fish and a net. Encourage your child to catch the fish from a small pool or basin.

4. Outdoor Water Activities

Take water play outside where there’s more space and opportunities for exploration.

• Sprinkler Fun: Set up a sprinkler in the yard and encourage your child to run through it. Start with just observing and then slowly encourage them to join.

• Water Balloons: Fill water balloons and have a gentle toss game. Let your child experience the sensation of water without full immersion.

• Splash Pad Visits: Visit a local splash pad where your child can observe other children having fun. Encourage them to explore at their own pace.

Shining STAR Abygail playing in the splash area at a local pool.

5. Swimming Pool Introduction

Gradually introduce your child to the swimming pool environment.

• Poolside Play: Start by playing near the pool, dipping toes and hands in the water. Let your child get used to the environment without any pressure to fully enter the water.

• Shallow End Play: When your child feels comfortable, move to the shallow end. Sit on the steps together, allowing your child to feel the water around them while still feeling secure.

• Swimming Lessons: Enroll your child in swimming lessons with an experienced instructor who specializes in working with fearful children. These lessons can provide structured and supportive learning.

Shining STARS Milaney, Abygail & Rexlynn checking out the pool with their dad.

6. Positive Reinforcement and Encouragement

Celebrate small victories and provide plenty of encouragement.

• Praise and Rewards: Praise your child for any interaction with water, no matter how small. Consider using a reward system for milestones like touching the water, splashing, or playing in the pool.

• Stay Positive: Keep a positive and calm demeanor during water play. Your attitude can greatly influence your child’s perception of water.

• Be Patient: Understand that overcoming fear takes time. Be patient and never force your child into water play. Allow them to progress at their own pace.

Helping a child overcome their fear of water requires patience, creativity, and a gentle approach. By introducing water play through small, fun, and non-threatening activities, you can gradually build their comfort and confidence. Celebrate their progress, no matter how small, and always prioritize creating a positive and supportive environment. With time and encouragement, your child can learn to enjoy the wonders of water play and all the benefits it brings. Dive in slowly, and watch them make a splash!