Playing in freshwater, saltwater, estuaries, and chlorinated pools has been a popular activity for people of all ages around the globe. Swimming in natural water environments allows for a closer connection to marine ecosystems and habitats and offers numerous physical and mental health benefits for middle school children. But it's essential to prioritize children's safety and the safety of the wildlife and the water itself.
As a former lifeguard, safety tips are always my first go-to:
Always have adult supervision.
KNOW HOW TO SWIM (we discuss black swimming patterns (specifically in middle school children) in this swimming article)
Wear appropriate footwear to avoid slipping
Take time to observe potential hazards such as sharp rocks or fast currents.
Never EVER cross rapids or falls (regardless of your swimmer's strength)
Do not stand in a current - even if it isn't over your head - entrapment can happen
Wear a lifejacket
Never dive or jump in - the bottom of the water is uneven due to the rocks
During middle school, it's important to remember that children heavily rely on the amygdala, the part of the brain associated with emotions and reactions. Once in that water, impulsion and feelings can override the safety conversation, so being vigilant as an adult or allowing them time to wade with an expert is paramount.
We discuss in more detail the dangers of human disturbances on freshwater ways in a different article because most harm comes from home habits and structural and corporal harm, but while at a creek:
Never litter
Don't pour anything in the water
Do not remove an animal or plant from its habitat and home
Be aware of your steps and your distance from wildlife
Benefits - Social-Emotional:
Playing in the creek allows children to connect with nature, fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder about the environment around them. It provides an opportunity for hands-on exploration, enabling them to learn about aquatic ecosystems and the various plant and animal species that inhabit the creek. Moreover, outdoor play promotes physical activity, helping children stay active and healthy. The sensory experience of splashing in the water, feeling the different textures of rocks and mud, and observing the creek's flow can also have a calming and therapeutic effect on their nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety.
Let's also remember that for children moving out of elementary years, it offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the demands of daily life, immerse themselves in a calming environment, and reconnect with their inner small childlike sense of joy and wonder. They get to splash, laugh loudly, foster social connections, strengthen relationships, and create lasting memories. Overall, playing in the creek offers middle school children a fun and enriching experience and contributes to their social-emotional development and well-being.
Benefits - Eco-Education:
Ecological habitation within a creek involves a complex network of interconnected organisms that thrive in this unique aquatic environment. Each organism, from microscopic algae to large fish species, plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem's delicate balance. Plants such as water lilies and cattails provide oxygen, food, and shelter for various aquatic creatures, while insects like dragonflies and mayflies serve as essential food sources for fish and birds.
Sidenote: The eating of dragonflies, "mosquito hawks," hurt my heart, considering they eat hundreds of mosquitoes a day.
Furthermore, the creek is a vital water source for many animals living in the surrounding area. Mammals such as beavers and otters rely on the creek for drinking water and as a habitat for building their dens. You can often spot birds such as herons and kingfishers hunting for fish along the creek's banks, showcasing the variety of species that rely on this ecosystem for survival. This includes water snakes, other reptiles, and amphibians that depend on the creek for their habitat and food source. In addition to supporting a rich diversity of flora and fauna, creeks also play a crucial role in regulating water flow and preventing erosion. The vegetation along the creek's banks helps to stabilize the soil, reducing the risk of sediment runoff into the water. This, in turn, helps maintain water quality and ensures the ecosystem's overall health. Overall, the ecological habitation within a creek is a fascinating and intricate system that highlights the interconnectedness of all living organisms within this unique aquatic environment.
Here's to some waterbody play this season!
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