Summer of Swim Safety

Growing up, swim lessons during the summer were a given. I spent hours at the pool learning the ice cream scoop, how to float on my back, the breaststroke and attempting the butterfly but never really getting good at it.

I learned how to manage my breathing while underwater and how to navigate the fear that sometimes comes with being underwater a little too long.

I even learned and demonstrated how to use pants as a flotation device in case, you know, I somehow end up in the ocean after being fully clothed for some reason.

I loved being in the water. My parents loved knowing I wouldn’t be at risk in case swimming was necessary.

Now, as an adult, I see the advantages and necessity of knowing how to swim. As a parent, we’ve made it a priority to get our kids into swim lessons so they develop those same skills.

Healthychildren.org quotes The American Academy of Pediatrics and gives some tips for when to start swimming lessons and what to look for in a learn-to-swim program. Here’s a link to the full article.

Swim lessons are a MUST for children ages 4 and up

Most children are ready for swim lessons by their 4th birthday. They should be able to learn basic water survival skills like floating, treading water and getting to an exit point. Shortly after, they should be able to learn and master the front crawl stroke.

How to know if you’re choosing the right swim program

While it might be the right time to get your child into swim lessons, it’s important to know what to look for in a program to make sure your child is safe.

Experience, qualified instructors

Swim instructors should be trained and certified through a nationally recognized and certified program. CPR and First Aid certified lifeguards should also be present.

Good safety habits in, on and near water

Look for programs who teach children to always ask parents, lifeguards or swim instructions to enter the water. Children should never swim without adult supervision.

Maintain water purity

Because younger children are more likely to swallow or breathe in water, maintaining proper chlorine levels is critical. Look for a pool that is clean, well maintained and healthy.

Keep the water warm

Younger children are at a grater risk for hypothermia so swim classes for children age 3 and younger should ideally be between 87 and 94 degrees Fahrenheit

So, as you consider where to get your child into swim lessons, make sure you look for programs that require certifications, are serious about safety and have created a healthy environment for kids to learn.