This mother teaches toddlers how to keep safe in the water

Tan (right) is a certified swimming instructor who believes it’s important for young children to learn water survival skills early. Photos: The Star/Asyraf Abd Samad

Theodore Ng sits on the edge of the pool, waiting for his mother’s cue.

As soon as Carmen Tan calls out to him, the 15-month-old toddler leans forward and plunges into the water. Within seconds, Tan raises him out of the water and takes him back to the pool’s ledge. Theodore then climbs out of the pool on his own, using his little hands and legs.