During submersion-part 2, what should the instructor do after submerging the baby?

After submerging the baby, the most appropriate action is to let go and then place hands in the baby's palms. This approach allows the baby to experience the sensation of being submerged while also providing them with a sense of security and support. When the instructor gently holds the baby's hands, it fosters trust and encourages the baby to engage in the experience, reinforcing their confidence in the water.

This method is vital for building comfort and aiding the baby's development of swim skills, as it encourages them to explore their surroundings in a safe manner. The instructor's role is to facilitate a supportive learning environment and help the baby acclimate to being in the water.

Utilizing a flotation device too early can create dependency and does not promote the baby's interaction with the water. Lifting the baby out of the water immediately may not provide the same opportunities for experiential learning and could interrupt the essential stages of water adaptation. Instructing the baby to swim to the side is not appropriate at this stage, as they may not yet possess the skills or physical capability to swim unassisted.

By holding the baby's hands after submerging, the instructor emphasizes safety while allowing the baby an opportunity to learn and adapt to the water naturally.