Reader’s Corner: ‘Josh the Baby Otter’ teaches important water safety rules

Recently I was privileged to attend the presentation on water safety and safe boating practices for students in kindergarten and first grade at Hollister schools. Sponsored by the Hollister Rotary, with assistance from Table Rock State Park providing boats and life jackets for demonstration and teaching, the presentation explained various aspects of boat safety and water safety. A key element of the teaching centered on the book, “Josh the Baby Otter,” which Rotary members read aloud to students in each class. A costumed mascot “Josh” was on hand to interact with students, and each received a copy of the book to take home. 

“Josh the Baby Otter” was written by Blake Collingsworth after the tragic drowning death of his toddler son, Joshua, in a family pool. Determined to ensure that other families did not have to suffer such grief, the family reaches out to children through schools, at special events, through partnerships with community leaders. The book teaches not only basic safety rules, but also the importance of teaching kids to float and swim at a very young age; even families who don’t own a boat or pool should realize just how tempting it is for kids to mess around when any body of water, even just a decorative public fountain or large container in a garden, is nearby. 

The book is an excellent way for parents, grandparents and anyone who works with children to introduce this important topic. When it’s time for the new baby otter, Josh, to learn to swim, other young otters want to help, but Josh’s mom reminds them of some important ground rules as Josh first learns the importance of never going into the water alone, and then learns to float—just like human kids can learn to float as a first step in learning to swim. The book is fun, with cute illustrations, but it also has multiple ways for kids to interact as they learn a fun song and recite a water safety pledge. 

This book would make a great gift for grandkids or young friends before heading to the lake or other water activities this summer! Get a copy at https://joshtheotter.org, and you can also find information about planning a special water safety event for your school, church, or community group.