My Child Doesn’t Like Going to the Beach or Pool
It can be incredibly difficult when you take your family to the beach or pool for some relaxation and fun, but your child will not get in the water. He may be unwilling to take off his shoes and socks, which may be due to an aversion to the texture or temperature of the pool concrete or sand. He may be fearful of the waves, watching them come closer and closer, or the loud noise of them crashing on the beach. The beach and pool can be a bit overwhelming and children (as well as adults) can be afraid of the unknown. Here are a few tips to try to get your child more comfortable and to make your summer more fun for the whole family!
Tip #1: Start Small!
Begin with Getting Comfortable at a Pool of Beach Before Progressing to the Water
- Start poolside by having him play with toys near the edge of the water and gradually move closer to the water until he feels ready to go into the water. This can help him gain confidence for this new environment and he will be in the water in no time!
- While in the pool, have fun by introducing toys, floats, or games to have your child feel more relaxed in the water. Flotation devices give your child more confidence and independence in the water, as well as make floating a little easier and decrease overall fear.
- Try visiting the pool or beach when it is less crowded to limit noise, splashing, and feeling overwhelmed. To ease your child into this new setting, try taking him during more quiet hours. This way your child won’t be exposed to splashing water and noise will be at a minimum to allow him to get more comfortable. Also, visiting the beach in regular clothes without the expectation to get in the water can help put your child at ease!
- Try wearing googles, as they can be a useful tool in the water if your child is sensitive to water in his eyes or around his face. Goggles can make splashing play a little more enjoyable for your child, as there is a protective barrier between his eyes/nose and the water. He can get a little water in his face but still see and have the sensation of getting water in his eyes or nose.
Tip #2: Bring A Kiddie Pool or Small Bucket
- A kiddie pool is something with which many children are familiar. It is portable, so your child can play with it in the comfort and familiarity of your backyard and then be readily transported to the beach. This provides your child something in which he can feel comfortable, while exploring this whole new area that is the beach! You can fill the kiddie pool up with water or sand for beach-side play time. Be sure to bring some favorite toys to increase comfort and overall fun!
- Try moving the kiddie pool closer and closer to the water as the day progresses and your child gets more comfortable with his surroundings, making this a more predictable, but fun-filled experience.