One of the biggest questions parents have is determining the right age for kids start swimming lessons.
Research widely proves that swimming is a fundamental skill for children’s safety. And beyond enabling them to feel comfortable in the water, this sport provides lifelong benefits. Children who grow up taking swimming lessons experience well-rounded development, particularly in cognitive and social areas.
However, there are some common concerns, especially regarding the appropriate age to begin lessons. That’s why we have prepared this comprehensive guide to explain when children should start swimming.
The right age for kids start swimming lessons
Regardless of routine, learning to swim should be a priority for all families. This skill keeps children safe by preventing unfortunate incidents such as drowning. Additionally, it encourages them to be more active and healthy.
Although some believe that babies are born knowing how to swim, what they actually exhibit are just natural reflexes. These are not enough to ensure that a child can swim safely. Babies can instinctively move their arms and legs when submerged, but this does not mean they can swim.
There is some debate regarding swimming lessons for babies. Despite their reflexes, children under one year old cannot lift and keep their heads above water long enough to breathe.
For parents interested in early exposure, the best option is to take parent-child water play classes. This helps children familiarise themselves with the water and adjust to the pool, which makes future lessons easier.
Of course, to truly learn how to swim, parents should enrol children in a structured and effective swimming programme that aligns with their pace and development.
Swimming lessons for young children
As mentioned earlier, the decision to start swimming lessons depends on a child’s emotional maturity, skills, comfort in the water, and motor and cognitive development.
It is recommended that children start swimming lessons from the age of one, with the primary goal of ensuring their safety.
For children up to the age of four, these classes helps them develop appropriate swimming skills.
A crucial point is that children, regardless of age, should be closely monitored during all lessons. Special attention should be paid to their comfort level and willingness to try new techniques and challenges.
Swimming for older children
This category covers swimming for children aged four and above. At this stage, they are ready to learn essential survival skills such as floating and moving from one point to another in the water.
Unlike younger children, four-year-olds have better breath control and greater coordination. As a result, they are better equipped to learn strokes and leg movements at a faster pace.
Their learning progress is much more noticeable. With better body control, they can start mastering more complex techniques.
By the ages of five or six, children can even begin to learn specific swimming styles, such as front crawl.
What to look for in a swimming school for children
To maximise the benefits of swimming and support children’s safe development and progress, it is essential to find experienced and qualified instructors.
All teachers should hold certifications in children’s swimming instruction, as well as first aid and CPR training.
The teaching methodology should be adapted to suit the child’s stage of development.
The school and staff should provide a safe and secure environment for lessons. If you cannot attend lessons with your child, consider private lessons where individual attention is given.
For younger children, the water temperature is particularly important. Children under three are at a higher risk of hypothermia, so warm water is recommended for their lessons.
Additionally, ensure that the school maintains proper chlorine levels and water disinfection, as children in the early stages of learning may accidentally swallow or inhale water more often.
Before choosing a school, attend a lesson or take part in a trial session. This will allow you to observe the teaching methods, the level of attention given to the children, the interaction between instructors and students, and how comfortable your child feels with the professionals and the environment.
Here at Easy2Swim, we focus not only on swimming but also on the overall development of children. We provide an environment that fosters their social, intellectual, physical, and emotional growth.
By following this practical guide, you will undoubtedly be able to choose the right place to enrol your child and determine the best time for them to start swimming.
