Both of my kids can happily float /doggie paddle in floaties so far, with the older one in daily classes. She started at age 6 months--she's old enough to unde

Both of my kids can happily float /doggie paddle in floaties so far, with the older one in daily classes. She started at age 6 months--she's old enough to understand it, but the article that prompted my fears was about a 6 year old who just happened to inhale enough water to make a difference a week later. My younger one is still testing to see what he can get away with, and can't communicate things like "hey my chest feels funny" yet. When my wife and I were on our honeymoon we watched a couple throw their 6 month old (10 month maybe? wasn't walking, only crawling) in the pool over and over again. Most of the pool looked on in horror, but they had taught her the "leg kick to turn over onto her back and float" skill. Definitely gave us perspective.