We are vacationing at a water park in one week. What is the best flotation device?

Question

My son is six years old. He is not afraid of the water but he cannot swim. What type of floatation device is best for him? Preserver type? Water wings? Suit with built-in ring? What do you suggest?

Answer 1

swim lessons. but since that is not possible in a week, i think NBC just ran a story saying that the suits with the built in flotation things are the safest.  but seriously, just put him in swim lessons so this is less of a problem

Answer 2

I would go without flotation devices. They give people a false sense of security. Anyone -- not just children -- are more likely to swim beyond their capability or get overly tired. As a parent, you need to keep him within reach at all times, and a flotation device would invite you to let your guard down.

If you don't think an attraction is "safe" for him without floaties, then it's not safe for him, period.

BTW - I have two kids that are essentially non-swimmers, and we go to a giant water park at least once a year. Stay vigilant, and you'll do fine.