Daniel Tiger Teams Up with YWCA for Pool Season Safety Tips
The YWCA and the producers of the animated series “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” have provided safety tips in a new episode for parents and caregivers to keep preschoolers safe as pool season begins.
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A new episode of “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” was released this week that shows Daniel and his friend Juan Carlos having fun at a pool and pretending to be whales.
Caregivers and children can watch the pool-themed episode and listen to a Daniel Tiger song about staying safe near water to start a conversation about pool safety.
Safety Tips
Lindsay Mondick, director of strategy and quality practices of aquatics at the YMCA of the USA, said the following safety tips should always be considered when young children are at the pool:
Always Ask Permission: Parents must instill this simple rule during a day at the pool, beach, or lake. Children must always ask for permission before entering the water.
Find a Water Watcher: Whenever children are in or around water, make sure an adult is identified as the “water watcher.” They are tasked with keeping an active eye on and supervising everyone without distractions - in other words, no phones, books, or conversations.
Use the Buddy System: Never let children swim alone, regardless of how strong a swimmer they are. Before leaving for the pool or beach, designate swimming buddies for everyone in the group.
Suit Up Accordingly: Swimsuits and sunscreen - but also Coast Guard-approved life jackets when necessary - should be worn by children at the pool. Do not rely on water toys, such as inflatable floats or pool noodles, as safety equipment.
Ban Breath-Holding Contests: Although a common pool game, breath-holding contests under water can be dangerous and lead to complications or a possible emergency.
Be sure to watch the Daniel Tiger episode, follow the YWCA’s safety rules around water, and have a great pool season.