Want to prepare your child for a pool day? Diving into the world of swimming can be an exciting and important experience for preschoolers. Signing up your little one for swim lessons is a great way to help increase your child’s comfort, skill, and safety in the water. Whether your child is about to take their first dip or you’re just considering the idea, here are some things to consider when choosing swim lessons.
When To Start Swim Lessons
Every child develops at different rates, and not all are ready to start swim lessons at the same age. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) supports swimming lessons for children ages one and older who show signs of readiness. The group suggests keeping your child’s physical and developmental abilities and comfort level in mind when making your decision.
What to Look for in a Program and Instructor
If you feel your child is ready, look for a program with experienced instructors who are certified in CPR, first aid, and water safety. Choose classes that focus on water survival competency skills and have a student-to-instructor ratio of six-to-one at the most. An adult should be within arms reach to provide “touch supervision” whenever your little one is in or around water.
Parent-Child Programs
If you don’t think your child is ready for independent swim lessons, the AAP recommends finding a parent-child program that focuses on water games, swimming readiness skills, and safety in and around the pool. If your child is under three years old, these parent-child programs are a great way to introduce them to water and get them used to being in a pool.
Children Ages Two to Four
Constant supervision at this age is still a must. Swimming programs will include fun games that encourage this age group to kick their legs, move their arms, and float supported on their stomach or back.
Children Ages Four and Up
By the time your child turns four, they are likely ready for formal swim lessons. At this stage in their development, most children can learn basic water survival skills like treading water, floating, and getting to an exit point.
Water Play at Home
Bath time is the perfect opportunity to get your child used to water in a playful, stress-free setting. With nightly baths, you can introduce waterproof toys, encourage them to splash, and gently pour water over their body to get them used to the sensation. You can also practice blowing bubbles in the water with your child. Make sure to go at your little one’s pace to keep it a playful and positive experience. For more ways to incorporate water play at home, check out some of our favorite water toys!
The Gardner School is Here to Support You
At TGS, we pride ourselves on partnering with our parents to provide information and opportunities to support your child’s development. Our blogs are a great resource to find insight and advice on the topics you care about most about when it comes to your child. Explore our blogs and additional resources today!