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By Katy Sexton
Water — it’s everywhere. It plays a big role in our everyday lives, whether that’s going for a swim in your local pool, a trip to the beach, or bathtime at home. What can be a really fun experience can also bring huge anxiety for many parents.
If I went for a swim, it was simple – I just had to worry about me. And I can swim… very well, in fact (I am an Olympic swimmer and Britain’s first female world champion). Growing up in Portsmouth, it was non-negotiable that I learnt to swim. Not just swim to the government’s criteria (25 m by the end of KS2), but actually be able to swim safely and save myself should I ever get into difficulties in the water, which, in my opinion, should be a minimum of 100 m! And then my daughter was born.
Being a baby turning 1 in lockdown meant activities were halted. Visits to the local beaches, Eastney being a favourite, became a regular occurrence when pools became inaccessible. Very quickly, confidence gave way to fear. As a parent, your instinct is to protect. You set rules, you watch closely, you keep within arm’s reach – and still, there’s that nagging worry in the back of your head. What if something goes wrong? Drowning is fast and silent, nothing like what is often portrayed in films, with arms flailing and lots of shouting and splashing. It’s quiet. This is what makes water safety feel so overwhelming.
I created the Gogglehedz: story-led books about water safety to help families feel confident and prepared around water. Engaging stories help children gain practical knowledge and habits that can make a difference. It’s about making sure fun can happen safely, and about reminding parents what’s safe, as it’s often we who get complacent or distracted.
We live in an area where water is part of our lifestyle, and these conversations matter even more. With Hilsea Lido reopening (I can’t wait!) and open-water swimming becoming more popular in recent years as it’s such a nice way to connect with nature and boost our wellbeing, there are also more risks, including cold-water shock, tidal changes and unpredictable conditions. These shouldn’t be feared, just respected.
The same applies in swimming pools. They may be controlled, but they still require vigilance and constant attention. Even the strongest swimmers need active supervision. I, for one, would never swim alone, and I know my capabilities. Many parents I speak to ask what to look for, and that is where education is powerful. Knowing how to supervise effectively and recognising early signs of distress can transform uncertainty into calm awareness.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that water safety is only about swimming ability, but it is much broader than that. It’s about awareness, preparation, and supervision. A calm-looking surface can still hide many risks. That small moment of distraction, such as checking a phone or turning to speak to someone, can be all it takes.
Posted in: Art & Culture, Education, Family, Health & Fitness, Sport
