Sun protection is important for you and your kids when you’re teaching them to swim, but that’s not why I recommend that you wear a hat instead of sunglasses. It’s not because hats are super cool, either. What is the reason?

Why You Should Wear a Hat Instead of Sunglasses When You Teach Your Kids to Swim

There are two reasons: communication and security. Both of these reasons have everything to do with eye contact.

Communication

If your child is looking you right in the eye when you’re explaining something, you can be sure that he’s focusing on you, not on the myriad distractions in and around the pool. It’s easier for him to look you in the eye if he can actually see your eyes. If he’s making eye contact, it will be easier for him to stay focused on what you’re teaching him.

Security

It’s important for your kids to feel secure in the water. The more relaxed and at ease they feel, the easier it will be for them to learn to swim. Keeping eye contact with you lets them know that you’re focused on them, too, and that you’re taking care of them.

Choose a hat with a brim to shield your eyes from the sun. Whether it’s a baseball cap or a glamorous Grace Kelly affair, a hat will help you make eye contact, and that will making teaching your kids to swim easier for both of you.