Bright Futures

As swim season approaches, families look forward to fun at pools and water parks in the Valley. Many parents enroll their kids in swim lessons for peace of mind. It's important to remember that even if children have had lessons, they are still at risk of drowning. Constant, capable supervision is the most important factor in preventing a child from drowning. Swim lessons should complement supervision and never replace it, regardless of a child’s swimming abilities.

Infant swim classes have not been shown to lower the risk of drowning. Families can take “parent-child” water play classes to gain familiarity and comfort with being around water.

When searching for swim lessons for children 1-3 years old, you’re likely to find parent-child classes. These classes introduce toddlers to swimming and feeling comfortable in the water accompanied by their parent or caregiver.  Between the ages of 4 and 6 years, most children are ready for independent swim lessons. At this age, they can more quickly learn and retain basic water competency skills such as floating and treading water.

Parents and caregivers should remember that swim skills require ongoing practice. Swim lesson programs vary greatly and are not one-size-fits-all. Families should select a program based on their child’s needs and abilities. Just because a child has completed swim lessons doesn’t mean they are always safe in the water. 

After your child has taken swim lessons, it is vital to continue practicing these safety tips:

• Swim lessons complement constant, capable supervision and never replace it.
• Stay within an arm’s reach from the child and able to see the child’s face even when they are wearing a life jacket.
• If you live in a home with a swimming pool, use childproofing mechanisms like door alarms and pool fence locks. Don’t forget to also secure the doggy doors.

For more information and water safety resources, visit our Water Safety Program page.