Floating is an important safety skill, but it is a skill often neglected by teachers and parents eager to see children swimming from point A to point B in the pool. However, your young swimmer will be far better off if they have mastered the skill of floating. The ability to float on the front and back shows a child is relaxed in the water and ready for more complex skills. Nervous or anxious kids will always move when placed in the water because subconsciously they are not comfortable. If your child falls into water accidentally, they have a better chance of getting to safety if they are relaxed. Floating on the back is a must for all kids to learn as this is the primary safety position when a swimmer cannot reach the side of the pool or safety.