Skip the floaties and phones, stay present at all times
By Shapland Swim Schools
WITH summer fast approaching, now is the perfect time to revisit essential water safety practices — especially for families with young children. Experts stress that supervision is the number one way to prevent drownings. It takes only seconds for a child to slip under water and aspirate, so it’s vital that parents remain alert, present, and most importantly, put their phones away.
Floatation devices like arm floaties may offer a false sense of security, and are not a substitute for active adult supervision. They can shift or deflate unexpectedly, and children may mistakenly believe they can swim independently. Constant visual contact is critical, even in shallow water.
Swim lessons are another crucial layer of protection. At Shapland Swim Schools in Aura, small class sizes (just three children per session) allow for focused, calm instruction tailored to each child. Short, 20-minute lessons maximise attention spans and skill retention — a method refined over more than 50 years. Morning sessions are also encouraged, when children are fresh and alert.
With proven results and a child-first approach, Shapland Swim Schools continue to be a top choice for Sunshine Coast families. Located just 12 minutes from Beerwah, they offer quality swim education that puts safety and progress first.