Playing at the beach, wading at a water park, paddling by a lake, or splashing in a pool on a hot day is a real summer treat for families, like ours. It is also a very weary time for parents, as drowning is reported to be the second most common cause of death from injuries among kids under the age of 14.
Our youngest turned 7, last week (Happy Birthday, Baby!) and it recently occurred to me that all 3 of her siblings had learned to swim, by now.
Even with her water wings, Mini-me felt awkward and uncomfortable like, well, a fish out of water - so, we happily agreed to submit our review for a good quality swim jacket and found confidence, with a capital "K!"
The Konfidence Jacket is made from wet suit grade neoprene for comfort and durability. It features 8 removable floats that allow for flexible buoyancy and is recommended as a children’s swimming aid (NOT a life jacket and should not be used as one) for ages 2-7.
The Konfidence Jacket fit Mini-me like a glove (she's 7, approx. 60 lbs. and wearing a size "Large" jacket) and after a couple of test floats, she felt more confident swimming on her own while I happily watched from the deck.
Did I mention, that last Friday (6/20) was the first day of Summer and it was STILL a bit...you know...chilly?
Didn't stop my kids, though - having to swim in cold water never seems to - and Mini-me was soon leaving the ladder and jumping into the pool!
Playing a rousing game of monkey-in-the-middle with her siblings.
It's soooo nice to see my 7-year-old is no longer sitting on the sidelines and enjoying a little summertime pool fun in the backyard.
Final Verdict: It's our opinion that The Swim Jacket is a very comfortable alternative to inner tubes and water wings (for parents, as much as kids) and allows for a much more natural freedom of movement in the water. The sturdy zipper has a protective cover, which greatly reduces the pinch-factor and is easy to maneuver (Mini-me can put it on, herself) as well as keeping it away from the littlest fingers.
Konfidence, U.S.A. is a family run business in Minnesota that also produces UV Protective Swimwear, Wetsuits and Baby Swimming products, like diaper covers, sun suits and hats. Their line is also endorsed by Katrina Radke (pictured above) who is an Olympic Swimmer, World Record Holder and Mother of 2 children, who says:
"Teaching your children to swim is one of the best gifts you can give them. It is a skill they will use forever and may one day save their life."
Aaaand that makes this Mom feel much more confident, with a capital "C", too!
Find It Here: Konfidence, U.S.A.
