Step 6 Introducing Submerging under water

Once your child is becoming comfortable putting their own face in the water and controlling their breath, it's time to introduce going completely underwater. 💦

In Step 6 of our Teaching Kids to Swim series, we show how a parent and child can submerge underwater together, making the experience predictable, positive and fun.

We use the verbal trigger “Ready, Go!” before going underwater. Using the same words each time helps your child understand what is about to happen and gives them an opportunity to prepare.

Start by jumping up together first and then gently bobbing underwater together. Keep the movement relaxed and playful.

Your child is watching you!

Your reaction underwater is important. When your child sees you looking happy, relaxed and confident, it helps reassure them that being underwater is a safe and enjoyable part of swimming.

💦 Say “Ready, Go!” before submerging
⬆️ Jump up before bobbing underwater together
😊 Smile and show that you're relaxed and confident
👀 Encourage your child to open their eyes underwater and look at you
🤝 Stay connected and go underwater together
🔁 Keep practising with short, positive repetitions

At this stage, we recommend practising without goggles. Children need to become comfortable opening their eyes and orientating themselves underwater without relying on goggles.

Never surprise your child by suddenly taking them underwater. We want them to understand what is happening and gradually develop confidence through positive experiences and repetition.

For families with a home swimming pool or access to a swimming pool, these simple activities can help children progress from breath control and putting their face in the water to becoming happy and confident with full submersion.

▶️ Watch the next video in the playlist to continue the progression. Follow the complete Teaching Kids to Swim series to see the full journey from water familiarisation through to independent swimming and freestyle.

⚠️ Water Safety: Children must always be actively supervised and within close reach of a responsible adult around water. Keep underwater activities brief and child-led. Never force or unexpectedly submerge a child. These videos support swimming practice and are not a replacement for professional swimming lessons.