08/18/2026
As a swim instructor, the number 1 thing that I see inhibiting a child’s ability to progress in their swimming is the use of a puddle jumper.
These devices are not a learn to swim device. They promote an unsafe vertical body position which places your child in the drowning position. It becomes sort of a muscle memory to be in this position which can lead to drowning when they are not in the puddle jumper.
They also help create a false sense of confidence in the pool. Many kids who wear puddle jumpers think that they are able to swim even without the puddle jumper on. This isn’t the case at all and can lead to a non swimmer getting into the pool when they are not capable of swimming properly.
Lastly, they delay the proper learning and development of water safety and swimming skills. The arm bands are restrictive and don’t allow your child to learn how to naturally float, kick or move through the water.
The best thing you can do for your child when you are swimming at home is to ditch the puddle jumper and allow them to explore buoyancy and try new things in a controlled environment with you right next to them in the water.
