Most babies and young children love playing in water. They become accustomed to it from the earliest time when they share baths with siblings or parents. So, water play can be an enjoyable and stimulating part of daycare provision for very young children.
Those babies who may be fearful of water usually learn their fear from the adults who care for them, who may unwittingly transfer anxiety to their children. Or, in some cases, adults may overwhelm children by using water in a frightening way, such as throwing it at them.
Early years practitioners should be mindful of these contrasting responses that water may generate in young children. When gathering initial information about new children, you should find out how they feel about bath time and whether they like water play.
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