Watch Me Shine specializes in child care, language therapy, and early intervention for your family. This month, we’re discussing some summer swim tips for your family. Not sure when your child should start swimming lessons? Here are some things to consider for this summer!
When Should My Child Learn To Swim?
Summer is here, and that means it’s pool time! Your family can stay on top of the swimming pool fun while remaining safe this season. Some things to keep in mind when deciding when to start swim lessons include:
- Your child’s age and weight. Some children will develop at different rates than others, and their age can contribute to swimming safety.
- Your child’s emotional and physical maturity. Keep in mind your child’s comfort level near and in the water.
Why Are Swim Lessons Important?
While swimming lessons aren’t usually considered an important summer tip for children, it’s a great way to help avoid accidental drownings. The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) recommends starting swim lessons by age one!
Did you know? Recent studies have suggested swimming lessons to reduce drowning risks for children between the ages of 1 – 4. While there is no evidence to show how infant swim programs lower the drowning risk, starting swimming lessons early is still a great idea.
What To Expect
A child is ready for swimming lessons by the time they are four years old. Some basic water skills they may learn include floating, treading water, and getting in and out of the water quickly. Between the ages of 5 and 6, a child may begin to master the “doggy paddle” or front crawl.
Finally, a good practice to follow is for the parent or guardian. Prevent accidental drownings by providing supervised swim times near a body of water and teach your child the difference between “non-swim time” and “swim-time”.
Child Care Services In Bangor, ME
Watch Me Shine contracts with Child Development Services and MaineCare Offices of DHHS/OFCS to provide early intervention services to children and their families. Our staff focuses on specialized plans to help your child reach developmental milestones.
