What’s the Right Age to Learn to Swim?

Posted by  on 24 June, 2015

We know that spending time in the water with family and friends is a great activity for children in the summertime, but one issue that many parents struggle with is deciding when is the right time to introduce their children to the joys of swimming.

The water poses an exceptional danger for young children, as shown by a recent study which highlighted that between 1999 and 2010 nearly 14,000 Americans drowned, with forty percent of those cases involving children from the ages of 1 to 4. In this post, we’ll outline how, and when, to begin teaching your children about safe swimming techniques.

Lesson Plans Critical to Early Development

Rather than focus on the age your child should begin swimming lessons, you might consider focusing on the type of lessons your child experiences. There are specific lesson types for each age-group and by ensuring your child is learning at the ideal pace, you can provide them a foundation that will help ensure they’re a strong swimmer as they enter their teenage years and adulthood. Below are the stages of swimming skills development relating to each age-group:

6 Months to 1 Year

At this age, the child should be introduced to the water to ensure they feel comfortable in the surroundings of a pool. They can be taught how to have fun in the water, splashing and singing songs as they discover the new and unique environment.

2 to 3 Years of Age

During this stage of their development, your child will be able to learn how to kick in the water and use a float support. While they will still require an adult to hold them in the water, your child can begin to express themselves and play in the water at this age.

4 to 5 Years of Age

At this age, many parents enroll their children in swim lessons. The average four to five year old child should be able to learn how to float in the water independently. This is also the age when they can be taught to go from a standing to swimming position without assistance.

6 Years of Age and Up

Older children can hold their breath for longer periods underwater. At six years of age, your child should be able to learn swim strokes such as breast stroke and butterfly. As they get older, they should be able to utilize their growing endurance to swim greater distances.

By planning carefully for your child’s introduction to the water, you can help keep them safe and ensure they’re learning at the ideal rate. To discuss this subject with a trusted swimming pool expert, contact our team today!