Simple ways to foster a love of water-play in kids
One of the best parts of living in Australia is our endless access to beaches, lakes, rivers and inlets. We are a country that loves to be outdoors and by the water and our year round (mostly) temperate climate makes it easy to do just that.
It stands to reason, then, that it’s important for children in Australia to grow up feeling comfortable in and near the water – and to understand water safety.
There are a few ways to foster a love and appreciation for water-based play and activities in little ones and we’ve got the scoop on how to make it fun.
Start small
If your child is not yet comfortable with water, start small by introducing them to shallow water or letting them play with water toys in a bathtub. Then, you can gradually increase the depth of the water or the size of the water play area as your child becomes more comfortable. The key here is slowly but surely – you don’t want them to have an experience that will turn them off of the water forever.
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Start early
Enrol your child in swimming lessons as early as possible to start getting them used to the feeling of being in water and, later, to start understanding the basics of water safety. These classes are also a wonderful bonding experience for parents and their children.
Make it fun!
Like most things in life – if they’re fun, you’re more likely to think of them fondly. We know that kids learn so much through play as well so the power of these two things can be really beneficial in helping kids develop a love for the water.
Pool time, water slides and water balloons are all fun, but if you’re looking for something more indoors friendly that still gets the message across, toys like Gabby’s Dollhouse Pool Playset are a fantastic option.
The playset includes Gabby and MerCat whose mermaid tails can change colour with warm water. The set also features a slide and pool floats for Gabby and MerCat to enjoy. This provides the opportunity for kids to not only get lost in imaginative play and re-create their favourite scenes from the TV series, but to be inspired to love the water, just like Gabby.
Share your own enjoyment
We know that our children model our behaviour, so when they see us enjoying water-based activities, they are more likely to want to join in. So, show your kids how much you love being in or by the water and they will probably want to get involved too!
Why are water-based activities so good for kids?
Aside from being really fun (and really practical on those scorching Aussie Summer days), water-based activities provide a range of benefits for kids.
Enhances Cognitive Development
Water-based activities can also improve cognitive development in children. For example, playing games in the water can help kids develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Reduces Stress
Water-based activities can have a calming effect on kids. Playing in the water can help reduce stress and anxiety, and promote relaxation.
Social Interaction
Water-based activities are often done in groups, which provides a great opportunity for social interaction and teamwork.
If you can’t rally the troops to the beach or local pool though, the Gabby’s Dollhouse Pool Playset is always a hit with kids as it gives them plenty of opportunity for interactive and imaginative play with friends. And, as a bonus, it also encourages sharing and taking turns which can help kids develop important social skills, such as empathy and communication.
Fun
Water-based activities can be really fun for kids and also improve mood and overall well-being. And what better reason to foster a love of water-play in your kids than that!?
This is a paid partnership between Kiindred and Spin Master.
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