It's About Time
A Message from Michael Phelps
Parents, caregivers and
mentors:I hope everyone is as excited for summer as I am. As a proud supporter and partner with Boys & Girls Clubs, I wanted to send a couple tips to help kids stay safe and have fun around the pool.
- Stay Safe
- Always know where every child is at all times. Safety must be the #1 priority.
- Know when children are getting tired and suggest moving on to new activities.
- Stay hydrated! The sun gets hot, and although you are in water, you may not be getting enough water in you!
- Wear sunscreen. Preferably a high SPF that is also waterproof.
- Go Slow
- Enter slowly into the water the first time, giving children time to adjust to the experience of the water. We ultimately want to build comfort, confidence and a feel for the water.
- Hold a hand or hold them close at first so they feel secure.
- Give plenty of time for free swim and water exploration. Allow children to experiment, but be there to support.
- Know your Surroundings
- Be aware of where the pool is shallow or deep.
- Point out the lifeguards and know where they are at all times.
- Explain that if kids need assistance, they can ask a lifeguard.
The Michael Phelps Foundation, along with my friends at the
Michael Phelps Swim School and KidsHealth, created a program called
im which offers water safety courses, recreational pool activities,
world-class swim training and related dry land instruction as well
as health and wellness education. We hope to bring this exciting
program to Clubs in the years to come so that every child is water
safe!
Have a great summer,
Michael
Michael Phelps Foundation
www.michaelphelpsfoundation.org
The Michael Phelps Foundation works to promote healthy, active
lives, especially for children, primarily by expanding the
opportunities for participation in the sport of swimming.
