Is Your Child Afraid of the Water?

August 27th, 2011

Why some children are afraid of water and how parents can help

by: Alyson Schafer

Water Fear

Fears develop when a well-intentioned parent overreacts to a child's healthy and natural reluctance.
As children explore, they encounter things that shock or surprise them.
Don't minimize the reality of your child’s fear–it’s very real to them.
Have fun! The best way to grow an interest in swimming is to be a swimmer yourself.

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ou’ve planned a fun day at the pool; unfortunately, your child won’t go near the water. Here’s why children become fearful and how to help them enjoy splashing around.

Why Children Become Fearful

Children are not born with fears. Fears develop when a well-intentioned parent overreacts to a child's healthy and natural reluctance.

A child comes into this world knowing little of how it works. As they explore, they encounter things–like water–that shock or surprise them. Their reaction is to be startled, not afraid. Parents often over-compensate by reassuring their child that everything is okay, giving them special attention, soothing with excessive expressions of concern, or cajoling.

The next time the child encounters the new situation they are faced with three choices:

Face the challenge: Look to the adults to see what they are doing and follow their lead.
Avoid the challenge: Retreat or withdraw from the new experience.
Get others to deal with the challenge: Control the situation with fear, thereby paralyzing themselves and gaining parental involvement

Helping your Child Overcome Water F... >>

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Is Your Child Afraid of the Water?

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Water Fear

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Why Children Become Fearful