Backstroke, everyone! Though we all spent nine months in the watery womb, some kids still find swimming a terrifying prospect. But swimming safety is a must-have skill. Even if you live in the desert, waterproof your family.

Swim lessons are not always advisable. It depends on the ages, aptitude, and interests of your children. Not every child is ready to start training in the pool. Explore this topic further online or at your local library. When they are ready, sign them up for class at your local Y or public park swimming program. Teaching them yourself is an option, but many find their children listen better to a trained instructor.

First, your kids need to learn to get their faces wet and blow bubbles. Teach this in the tub. Get a few Ping-Pong balls and have your little ones blow them across the water.

Acquaint younger children with the pool when they’re ready. Often they need to get used to the idea. Help them step off the edge and into the wet. When they’re ready, let them jump in. A hula hoop target can entice them.

Learning to float is a crucial skill. Show them how to simply lie over the top of the water. Nervous children curl up into balls and sink. Teach them to relax and flatten out. Once that’s mastered they need to get comfortable holding their breath and ducking under the water. Encourage them as they’re ready but don’t push too far or too fast.

Soon your kids will be ready to propel themselves along and you’ll have the swiftest swimmers in the fish school. Swimming is a healthy activity you can enjoy together. They’ll love it, and you’ll rest easier knowing your children won’t sink.