So it’s time for your child to learn to swim – what great news! Now that the decision has been made, where do you start? When should they start? Before tackling the research, take these three questions into consideration to guide you through:
1) When is the right time for my child to start swim classes?
While most children aren’t fully able to apply the skills of swimming until the age of 6 or 7, having them start as early as 6 months can be beneficial. Getting in the water at a young age can help your child get comfortable with the water. Splashing around, blowing bubbles, dunking their head under water can help make the water fun so when it comes time to learn the skills in a more structured setting, they won’t be afraid of diving in.
In addition, many “water acclimation” classes will spend time reviewing water safety tips with parents so as their child grows and learns new skills, they can keep them safe.
2) What should I look for in a swim class?
When considering where to take swim lessons, make sure the facility has safety as the number one priority. That means they employ certified instructors and have the right number of lifeguards on duty. In addition, look for classes that have small class sizes and provide group and one-on-one instruction. As far as skills, make sure you sign up for a class that will focus on mastering fundamentals like stroke, diving and kicking for older kids.
3) Are all swim classes the same?
The fun thing about swim classes is that there are a lot of options to consider! Group lessons involve small groups of children learning to swim at the same time with an instructor, while parent-child classes have a parent in the water with their child during the lesson. Some classes teach basic skills, while others offer playtime and the opportunity to get used to the water. Really, it depends on personal preference and what your child needs when considering age and skill level.
If you are interested in getting your child started with swim classes, check out what CP’s Aquatic Center has to offer. We are open to the public and have swim classes for children 6 months to 7 years, all held in a safe and fun atmosphere. We focus on teaching the basic skills needed to become a strong swimmer. Learn more at http://www.wearecp.org/we-can-help/aquatic-center/