Your child’s wellness check is where you cover all the big stuff – growth, nutrition, and sleep. However, there’s one lifesaving topic that many families often overlook: water safety. 

Yep. Right there between the stethoscope and the stickers, you’ve got the perfect chance to ask the questions that can help keep your little fish safer in and around the water all year long! Remember, water is everywhere; we’re not just talking about big bodies of it like pools, oceans, and lakes.

Why Talk Water Safety With Your Pediatrician?

Because your pediatrician knows your child, they can:

  • Tailor water safety advice to your child’s age, size, and development
  • Help you figure out when swim lessons make sense
  • Talk through common (but tricky) questions, like when it’s okay to let your kiddo splash in the tub solo, or what to do if there’s a pool nearby
  • Share local resources you might not know about – CPR classes, swim schools, even safety equipment

In short, they’re your built-in water safety partner. Use them!

Conversation Starters for Your Next Visit

Not sure what to ask? Try these:

  • “When can my child safely start swim lessons?”
  • “We have a backyard pool/lake/pond nearby. What precautions do you recommend?”
  • “Are there signs of water readiness or hesitation I should look for?”
  • “What should I do in an emergency before help arrives?”
  • “Are there safe bath time milestones I should know about?”

A few simple questions about water safety can spark a conversation that protects your child not just this season, but for years to come.

A few simple questions about water safety can spark a conversation that protects your child not just this season, but for years to come.

Pediatricians + Parents = A Safer Swim Season

You’ve got eyes on your child every day. Your pediatrician has the training to catch risks you might not even think about. Together, you’re the dream team! 

By adding water safety to your regular check-up, you will:

  • Normalize the conversation – kids see water safety as just as important as wearing helmets or buckling seatbelts
  • Stay ahead of milestones – you’ll know what’s appropriate as your child grows and changes
  • Catch hidden risks – like developmental delays, medications, or medical conditions that might impact water safety

Make Your Next Well Visit Count

Add “water safety” to your list – right next to growth charts and shot records. Those few minutes of conversation could help prevent an accident, calm your worries, and set your child up for safer, happier splashes for years to come!

FAQs

When should my child start swim lessons?

Every child is different, so talk to your pediatrician about what is best for your child based on their needs! Goldfish Swim School offers programs for children as young as 4 months, helping them build comfort, confidence, and safety skills early on. Learn more about our Mini lessons and how we introduce water safety to our littlest fish!

How can pediatricians help prevent water accidents?

Pediatricians can flag potential risks, like developmental delays, medications, or health concerns, that may affect water safety. They can also connect you to local resources, including CPR classes and professional swim schools – like Goldfish Swim School! 

What makes Goldfish Swim School different from other programs?

Our curriculum, The Science of SwimPlay®, combines proven swim techniques with fun, engaging lessons that help kids develop life skills in and out of the pool. We focus on small class sizes, certified instructors, and a warm, safe environment for every swimmer.

How often should my child take swim lessons?

Consistency is key! We recommend year-round swim lessons once a week to help children build and retain their skills. Regular practice keeps safety techniques fresh and boosts confidence in the water.