The world is mostly water, making it a consistent presence in our lives. But while its beauty can captivate us, water can also pose a serious danger to those who aren't equipped with the necessary skills to navigate it safely. This danger becomes even more profound when it comes to our children. That’s why teaching kids how to swim is akin to giving them a lifesaving skill they can carry throughout their lives.
As parents, we decided to enroll our daughter, Scarlett, in swim classes as soon as we felt comfortable in the post-COVID world. Being just two years old at the time, Scarlett had always shown a love for water. Her early start in swimming, despite occasional bouts with waves, has set her on a path towards being water-safe and confident. Now, she’s almost ready to take her swim test. Although we feel she's already equipped with adequate skills, we continue with her lessons simply because she enjoys them, and we adore her teacher.
If you're considering swim lessons for your child, here are some points to consider, derived from our experience and supplemented with expert advice:
- Start Them Young: It's never too early to get kids comfortable with water. Early exposure can help children overcome any fear they might have.
- Tears Will Happen, But It's Okay: Starting something new can be scary. If tears are shed, remember that it's just part of the process.
- Week Safety Course Isn't Just for Beginners: Regular refresher safety courses are a great way to ensure skills stay sharp.
- Swim Often Outside of Lessons: Regular swimming helps reinforce what they're learning in class and builds confidence.
- Practice Bubbles in the Tub: This fun activity can help your child get comfortable with the idea of having their face in the water.
- Never Let a Child Out of Your Sight Around Water: Constant supervision is key to prevent accidents.
- Ensure a Capable Swimmer is Present: If you're not a swimmer yourself, make sure someone who can swim is always present when your child is in or near water.
- Use Swim Diapers: For smaller children, swim diapers prevent accidents in the pool and are often a requirement at many facilities.
- It's Never Too Late to Start: Swim lessons aren't just for kids. Adult classes are also available, and it's never too late to learn this vital skill.
Swimming is more than just a leisure activity; it's an essential life skill. By introducing our children to the water at a young age and equipping them with the skills to swim confidently and safely, we're not only giving them a way to enjoy and respect the water, but we're also providing them with a skill that could potentially save their lives.
*Scarlett takes lessons at Sharkie's Swim and Scuba Academy in Smyrna, GA.
