Summer in Wilmington means long, sunny days and lots of opportunities for outdoor fun—especially around the water. Whether it’s pool time, beach trips, or backyard splash pads, water play is a favorite for kids of all ages. But with all that fun comes a serious responsibility: keeping children safe.

At Southern Coast Nannies, we’re big believers in fun and safety. Here are our top tips for keeping little ones safe around water this summer:

Two girls laughing while splashing in a shallow pool.

1. Always Have Active Supervision

No matter how shallow the water is or how experienced your child may be, active adult supervision is non-negotiable. Drownings can happen silently and in seconds. Stay within arm’s reach of young children and never rely solely on lifeguards or floaties.

🧡 Tip: Designate a “Water Watcher” during gatherings—someone whose only job is to watch the kids. Switch out every 15–30 minutes so no one gets distracted or fatigued.

2. Teach Kids Water Rules Early

Even toddlers can learn basic safety rules like:

“Always ask before going near water.”
“No running near the pool.”
“Stay where you can touch the bottom unless an adult is with you.”

Repeat these rules often, especially before any water activity. Kids remember best with repetition and simple language.

3. Invest in Swimming Lessons

Children who learn to swim from an early age are not only safer around water but also more confident and comfortable. Look for certified swim instructors or programs that specialize in age-appropriate, safety-focused lessons.

4. Use Life Jackets—Not Floaties

Inflatable arm floaties may look cute, but they’re not considered safe. Instead, use a Coast Guard-approved life jacket for any child who isn’t a strong swimmer, especially on boats, docks, or near natural bodies of water like lakes or the ocean.

5. Secure Pools and Water Features at Home

If you have a pool, pond, or even a hot tub at home, be sure it’s safely secured with:

A four-sided fence with a self-latching gate
A pool alarm and/or cover
All toys removed when not in use (to avoid temptation)

These extra layers of protection can prevent unsupervised access to water.

6. Know CPR

In an emergency, knowing CPR can save a life. Whether you’re a parent, nanny, or grandparent, consider getting certified in infant and child CPR.

Southern Coast Nannies can provide affordable CPR training and certification. Please email us at info@southerncoastnannies.com if you’re interested in setting up a training.

7. Be Cautious at the Beach

Wilmington’s beaches are a summer treasure, but the ocean adds extra risks like rip currents and changing tides.

Always swim near a lifeguard
Watch for warning flags
Teach kids to never turn their back on the waves

Even strong swimmers can be caught off guard, so stay extra vigilant in open water.

Final Thoughts

Water play should be one of the best parts of summer—and with the right precautions, it can be! Taking time to reinforce water safety helps ensure that every swim, splash, and cannonball is safe and memorable for all the right reasons.

At Southern Coast Nannies, we take water safety seriously. We match families with nannies who are CPR-certified, safety-conscious, and trained in best practices for summer fun. If you’re looking for an extra pair of eyes (and hands!) this season, we’re here to help.

Wishing you a safe, sunny, and splash-filled summer! 💦

Keeping Kids Safe Around Water This Summer: Top Tips