What are swimming and flotation aids?

Swimming and flotation aids, often called “floaties,” are products designed to help children stay afloat so they can build confidence in the water. There are a variety of styles available, including full-body suits, vests, armbands, rings or seats.

While these products can support water play and early learning, they are not a substitute for supervision. Floaties must always be used with close, constant adult supervision.

What are some risks associated with using floaties?

Floaties can help to build confidence in the water but they are NOT a lifesaving device. An over-reliance on floaties can lead to a false sense of security for both parents and children and not provide a true picture of a child’s swimming ability. You may have seen children leaping confidently into deep water while wearing a flotation aid, yet be unable to swim if the product is removed.  

Some floaties can hold children in an unnatural vertical stance in the water and impede their arm movements and body rotation. This can lead to the development of inappropriate movements and bad habits which don’t support their acquisition of swimming skills.

Other dangers that may occur:

• Floaties slipping off or being removed by children in the water
• Ill-fitting products may ride up or cover a child’s face
• Inflatable products deflating or popping
• Kids tipping face-first into water while their body remains floating

How can I choose the best product for my child?

When choosing flotation aids, ensure the product is suitable for your child’s age and weight and fits snugly. Consider an appropriate design, size and fit that matches your child’s development and current swimming ability. Some vests and suits have adjustable foam floats which can be removed as their skills develop.  

Flotation aids should meet the Australian mandatory standard. This regulates various aspects of the product’s construction, materials and required safety warnings.

How can I use floaties safely?

Do not rely upon floaties to keep your child safe and protect them from drowning. Always use floaties under constant adult supervision. You should be in the water, actively interacting with your child within arm’s reach so you can respond quickly if anything goes wrong.

It is also important that children spend time in the water without flotation aids. This helps them develop genuine swimming skills and allows you to better understand their true abilities and limitations.

Additional safety steps:

• Follow all manufacturer instructions and warnings
• Regularly check products for holes, leaks or signs of wear
• Store floaties and pool toys out of sight and out of reach when not in use as leaving flotation devices near the pool can attract increase the temptation for children to enter the water unsupervised

Find out more about keeping kids safe at home and around water through the Keep Watch program: