Most 3-year-olds are full of energy and questions, often learning through play time and games. Playing in the water can be enjoyable for you and your 3-year-old, once you learn some water games.Games can assist your child in feeling comfortable with the water and teaching him how to swim. Please be safe around the water and watch your child at all times.
Sink Or Float
One fun game to play in the water with your 3-year-old is sink or float. Grab a few toys that are waterproof and bring them with you to the water. The best part of this game is you stay dry, just the toys get wet. According to the Savvy Source, you drop the toys one at a time into the water. Before doing so, you will ask your child if you think the toy will sink or float. Then you find out if he was right. This game provides education as well as fun.
It's An Octopus
For this game, you will need a water bottle with two holes in it, one at the bottom and one at the top. Fill the water bottle up half way with water, and then place the lid on. Now put your finger on the top hole. You and your child will notice that no water leaks out of the bottom. When you remove your finger from the top hole, the water begins to leak out of the bottom. According to WonderTime, this educational game allows your child to experiment, predict and conclude.
Looking for Fish
Looking for fish allows your 3-year-old to get comfortable in the water. First, place your eyes and nose down in the water. Then tell your child you see a certain type of fish, perhaps a dolphin or shark. Next, ask your child to do the same. If your child is uncomfortable putting his whole face in the water, then start slow by asking him to put just his chin in the water. With time your child will be able put his entire face in the water.
Singing Games
Singing games are a great tool to get your child acquainted with the water. A popular song, "Children in the Pool," is sung to the tune of the "Wheels on the Bus." With each verse the child begins to splash and sing, becoming familiar with the water. Your child learns to kick his feet, splash his hands, and blow bubbles in the pool. It is a great warmup to a swim lesson.
