Once your kids have mastered popup breathing, they’re well on their way to being water safe. Here are the final steps of teaching your kids this important swimming skill.

The Next Stage of Teaching Popup Breathing

Explain what you’ll be doing before you start. While you’re supporting his body with an arm under his stomach, have your child glide in torpedo position from one side of the pool to the other. Halfway across the pool, have him push down with his arms and lift his head to take a breath. Hold him as firmly as necessary while he tries it.

Work your way to having him try to pop up for a breath halfway across the pool while your arms are just grazing his belly, providing no real physical support. Then walk beside him while he takes a popup breath on his own.

The Final Stage of Teaching Popup Breathing

Have your child practice pushing off from the side and swimming across the pool to you, stopping to pop up for a breath whenever he needs one.