Summertime is a fun time for both kids and adults and one way to get kids out into the fresh air and into a fun, healthy activity is swimming so learn how to get the kids swimming this Summer.
They need to learn the water safety steps, how to move in the water, and appropriate swim strokes so that they can stay safe.
This combined with supervision builds muscle strength, coordination, and self-confidence.
By developing these skills, kids can grow up to enjoy swimming as exercise and fun throughout their lives.
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Some Statistics
The simple fact is that we are surrounded by water every day.
It can be a stream, river or even the ocean but there are also unprotected pools and neighborhood drainage ditches and pools where your child can be caught in an unsafe situation.
The National Institutes of Health states that swim lessons provide an 88% reduction in drowning risk for young children aged 1-4 years.
The CDC cites findings that children at this young age have the highest drowning rates.
In fact, this is the most frequent cause of death among small children beyond birth defects.
Safety Measures
The most important safety measure is to enroll your child in formal swimming lessons as early as possible.
Not only will this be a bonding time between the parent and child, it provides muscular and cognitive development benefits as well.
There are other safety precautions that need to be followed.
Top of the list is NEVER allowing a child to swim alone.
There should always be an adult watching. At first, the adult may be in the pool within arm’s reach of the child. As they develop their skills and knowledge, this may no longer be necessary.
However, there should always be someone there.
Other safety measures include fencing around the pool with gates, and preferably with alarms.
Also, the designated “water watcher” should take a CPR class and have a phone ready for emergencies (but not be looking at the phone – keep the eyes on the child at all times).
And when venturing into the ocean or lakes, everyone should be wearing life vests.
Benefits of Getting Kids Swimming this Summer
First of all, swimming is not a seasonal activity.
It can be enjoyed throughout the year at indoor pools.
This allows your child to continue developing their skills and water safety anytime.
It also means that it can be a fun activity for the whole family to engage in.
One of the most interesting studies from the Griffith University in Australia showed that children enrolled in swim lessons were six to 15 months ahead of their peers in problem-solving, language development, cognitive skills, and ability to follow instructions.
This study showed advancements in reading, oral expression, story recall, mathematical reasoning, and ability to follow directions.
These skills are combined with physical development, increased coordination, and confidence.
This together with supervision and some fun and vibrant girls and boys swimwear builds muscle strength, coordination, and self-confidence.
By developing these skills, kids can grow up to enjoy swimming as exercise and fun throughout their lives.
Moms Advice on the Importance of Swim Lessons
Four moms interviewed by Emler Swim School in The Woodlands, Texas revealed their thoughts on the importance of swim lessons, particularly at an early age.
This is what they have to say about the most significant considerations.
- Children not only need to be stimulated physically and mentally, but they also need to be challenged to get them out of their comfort zone.
- Activities should appeal to their interests.
- Swimming is a fun activity that allows them to develop lifesaving skills.
- Swim lessons should be age-appropriate.
- When considering swim lessons, look at quality, pricing, and the amount of time involved. You need to prevent stress and burnout.
- You will see your child progress over time and realize that it’s not just playtime, it’s a time for them to develop skills they will use throughout their lives.
- When choosing activities for my children, I look at those that they are interested in and will develop their skills but also develop their social skills. Social development is very important, particularly at a young age.
- We love finding activities that we can do as a family.
A Note About COVID-19
The CDC states that COVID-19 does not transmit through pool water.
In a properly maintained pool, there is no risk of you or your child contracting the illness.
However, the pandemic has caused the cancellation of swim lessons and the closure of facilities.
A report by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission released in June 2020 states that child drowning is the leading cause of death among young children.
Due to the pandemic, it is estimated that numbers could rise.
Rowdy Gaines, a three-time Olympic Gold Medalist stated, “As excited as we are about getting back into the water, it’s important that we stay focused on safe pool behaviors.
Parents have to keep a close eye on their children 100% of the time, even when lifeguards are nearby.”
Not Just for Kids
One in five American adults can’t swim, according to the American Red Cross.
Most say that they can but are unable to complete basic safety tasks in the water.
The primary reason for not learning as an adult is fear.
Classes that are designed specifically for adults can help push through that fear of water so that the student can develop the skills they need.
Yet access and affordability also contribute as barriers.
Organizations like the YMCA, and other swim centers, are working to change that with scholarships and bringing lessons to apartment complexes.
There are significant benefits to enrolling your child in swim lessons this summer.
Not only does it get them out in the sun and fresh air, but they are also developing lifelong skills.
Swimming is an activity that the whole family can engage in presenting special bonding times. Plus, swimming is fun!
