The true queen of the pools every year, the baby neck float is a hit on social media but also generates a lot of discussion on the web. This concept of a baby float has been criticized by some health specialists.
The current stance on the use of baby neck floats remains quite divided. In general, it is essential to remember that the aquatic environment is dangerous, and parental supervision is a necessity during swimming sessions. Young children are often unaware of the dangers associated with aquatic activities. Leaving a child alone during swimming lessons, whether equipped with safety gear or not, significantly increases the risk of drowning.
A good alternative to the neck float (if you are not convinced by this model) is the baby seat float.
To determine if neck floats are really dangerous for babies, it is first necessary to understand how they work. Neck floats are flotation devices placed around a child's neck to keep their head above water while they swim.
The idea is that the child has more freedom of movement than with conventional floats. Neck floats were also originally created as a tool for aquatic therapy. They were not actually designed as swimming aids for children. Introducing baby to water games primarily involves complete support to familiarize them with the pool and help them overcome their fear of water.
The argument that truly raises controversy around baby neck floats is one of providence. Health experts advise against the use of any flotation device in general with children. The concerns raised relate to the risk of puncture.
Babies do not have the reflex to struggle or call for help when they are about to drown. A sudden puncture of the flotation device would thus be fatal for them. The danger is even more real if the child swims without the immediate supervision and proximity of an adult.
Apart from the baby float, swim arm bands, float suits, swim vests, pool noodles, harnesses, or any other inflatable mats ensure good buoyancy for the child, in the aquatic garden, the paddling pool, or even the bathtub (for a first introduction).
The very essence of swimming for babies is social interaction. The motivation behind aquatic awakening is not the learning of swimming itself. Swimming sessions are rather an opportunity for parents to bond with their children.
Human contact is a factor of social interaction in swimming. The baby cannot bond with their parents without physically touching them. Wearing a neck float gives them more autonomy, which does not mean they can be left alone.
The solution to the dilemma posed by baby neck floats lies in the argument that motivated the controversy itself. A neck float, like other flotation devices, does not replace adult supervision for the safety of the child.
The inflatable neck float allows the child to float while facilitating their movements for swimming. However, it does not guarantee the absolute safety of the child in the water. An adult must always be nearby to hold the child in case of a puncture or other incidents.
Manufacturers of baby neck floats claim they can be used from the age of 3 months. However, it is safer to reserve them for children at least 1 year old. It is at this age that the child begins to better understand the surrounding environment. After 3 months, we recommend purchasing a baby float 6 months.
A 1-year-old child is very communicative, and their preferred language is body language. Aquatic awakening, as mentioned above, promotes social interaction through human contact. A 1-year-old child is therefore more receptive to the benefits of aquatic awakening on their person.
Neck floats are not substitutes for safety in swimming for babies. However, they can offer a reasonable degree of safety for aquatic awakening. The following models combine safety with a playful and comfortable design for the baby.
This baby neck float is designed for the aquatic awakening of 1-year-old children. Its strap is adjustable to reduce any pressure on the baby's neck. The material that makes up the float is also waterproof and embossed for optimal resistance. Perfect for the first swim!
The distinctive feature of this neck float is its design without pressurized air (the float cannot deflate). The float floats thanks to compressed foam beads, making it puncture-proof. The beads are compressed in a soft TPU fabric with a 3D design for added comfort.
The trending model is the donut, but different concepts are in the works, including a pineapple model and a watermelon model that are sure to be a hit!
This neck float ring model wraps securely around a baby's neck with its secure buckle. Handles are integrated into the float for you to stabilize it as the baby moves. The PVC coating is also waterproof. Perfect for learning to swim!
Just like our arm bands, our baby seat float and our swim vest, these neck floats are comfortable. They are designed for children from 3 to 12 months and are resistant and stable throughout this age range.
Put on their swimsuit (preferably anti-UV for effective sun protection) and inflate their neck float, give them a fun inflatable toy, protect their head with a parasol or sunshade, then let your baby swim.
Hold onto its handles and watch your baby enjoy and learn to swim outdoors, in the sun, with confidence. Stay by their side, like a real lifeguard, to supervise and encourage them!
They talk about us