Has your child recently developed a sudden fear of the water, even though they were previously comfortable with submerging? Don't worry, you're not alone!
Many children, even those who had previously been comfortable with going underwater, can suddenly develop an anxiety around submerging.
There might not be anything going wrong at all - it is likely just a part of a natural developmental stage. It's crucial to handle this stage with care and understanding.
First, it's essential to respect their feelings. If your child is showing signs of unwillingness to go underwater, don't force them. It's crucial to remember that fear is a response to perceived danger, even if that danger is not real in the adult's eyes. Forcing your child to face their fear might seem like a quick solution, but it can actually lead to more anxiety and resistance in the long run.
Instead, try to empathize with their fear. Let them know that it's okay to be scared and it's perfectly alright not to go underwater until they feel ready. Encourage them to take their time and never rush the process.
Second, try to find out what they are comfortable with. Are they willing to submerge for a toy, or are they only comfortable putting their chin in the water? Every child is unique, and their comfort level with water can vary greatly. Some might be willing to dive for a toy, while others might only be okay with getting their chin wet.
Listen to your child and observe their reactions. Ask them what they are comfortable with and respect their boundaries. This step is all about understanding their comfort zone and working within it.
Lastly, once you've established what your child is comfortable with, slowly build up to full submersion starting from this new point. This could mean pouring water over their shoulders or the back of their head, or asking them to put their chin in the water by themselves.
Hope this helps! Let us know if you have any comments or other concerns below.