Beach and children that can not swim yet question

[Stephieann]

Ok. I have a 3 year old that can not swim. What is the best way for her to go swimming in the ocean? SWIMMIES (arm floats), life vest or the swimming suits with the built in float. This is our first beach trip and i want her to comfortable yet safe. I prefer not to use lifevest for little ones but if it is the safest that is they way i will go.

 

[sopandbass]

Admittedly, I'm overprotective. I used both a vest and swim wings for a while because our little girl had/has no fear of the water and she's pretty determined/stubborn. Even after swim lessons, I left the wings on for a while when in open water.

 

[Honu]

Floatsuit. They are MUCH more comfortable for kids and they actually can help them learn to swim, which vests and floaties don't. They sell floatsuits at Sears and many sporting goods stores now.

 

[la37]

Walmart has the floatsuits also. I saw them today in the toy dept. by the pool stuff.

 

[kcromley]

like several parents at Castaway Cay, I used the swimsuit with the ring sewn into it and was delighted with it.

 

[Par8hed]

I live on the ocean. The ONLY way a 3 year old (whether a swimmer or not) should go in the ocean is in the firm hold of an adult who is a competent swimmer. Swimmies, floats, etc. are an aid not a substitution.

 

[beachpal]

I agree that float suits are the best alternative for the ocean. Our 3 year old used it all summer and had a great time in the ocean. You do need to hold on to them still but it is much easier on you if they have the support of the vest. I wished I had known about them a few years ago for my older son!

 

[crisi]

We used the same sort of life vests the Disney resorts and waterparks provide. We were also within reach of our children at all times when they were above their ankles in the water. (We did let them play in the sand within view).