Personally, I don't have any kids of my own right now. So you are probably wondering why I am suggesting buying a product for a kid if I don't have one? I promise I'm not one of those strangers that likes to parent other peoples kids from afar with no experience. My insight on this product is from experience, just a different angle.
What is the product I'm trying to get you to invest in? Puddle Jumpers!
I've been a lifeguard for four years now and I've worked at a daycare during the summer for three of those four. So I have a lot of experience being in the water, especially with kids.
Why should I go buy a puddle jumper if I already have arm floaties?
While arm floaties were the thing we all grew up on, as time and technology changes, so should our care about safety. According to the Coleman Company website, puddle jumpers are U.S. Coast Guard approved. Do you know what that means? That means that they are safe for children to wear in the water, on boats of all sizes and speeds, etc.
They are too expensive for me to justify purchasing.
Um, no. Puddle jumpers average about $25. May is water safety month, so they took 25% off of some select designs, and I found them on Amazon for about $19. While normal arm floaties can be anywhere between $1-$10, spending the little extra for the puddle jumper is more than just a stylish upgrade. Plus, as children outgrow them, they offer a great resale value and many parents sell them cheaper than the original price.
I've heard that they can cause injuries to kids.
Just like any other safety device, if it is used incorrectly, then injuries can occur. However, if you follow the directions, your child is perfectly safe. According to this article by snopes.com, there was a Facebook accusation that the use of a puddle jumper has caused "severe bruising on her ribs" and "difficulty breathing." However, after looking for more accusations and evidence, the post was deleted a day after its debut and no other accounts have been claimed.
Overall, these floatation devices/life jackets are the best water-safety device on the market. They won't cost a fortune, they are safe, they work, and not to mention they are so so cute! If you don't already have one for your child, what are you waiting on?