Swim Instructor's Warning: Why Floaties Could Be Putting Your Child at Risk

Pool Safety Expert Warns Against Flotation Devices for Children In a recent video posted on social media, Nikki Scarnati, a certified Self Rescue Swim Instructor from the US, addressed concerns about pool safety for children. Scarnati, whose expertise is widely respected in the water safety community, argues that flotation devices, while seemingly helpful, can create a false sense of security and hinder a child's ability to develop crucial water skills. "By using floaties, you are eliminating the understanding that is a natural consequence in water," Scarnati explains in her video. She points out that many children who drown do so outside of official swim times, often after having been in the water with a floatation device. This, she says, is because they haven't learned to navigate the water independently. Scarnati advocates for a different approach, focusing on teaching children water competency. This involves teaching children how to back float and navigate the water without assistance. She believes that this approach is far safer and prevents children from developing a dependence on flotation devices that could put them at risk. Her video has gained popularity, highlighting the ongoing debate about the safest methods for teaching children water safety. Scarnati's message serves as a crucial reminder for parents and caregivers to prioritize water safety education and consider the long-term benefits of teaching children essential water skills rather than solely relying on flotation devices.