The topic of what is the best
age for children to start swimming lessons has a lot of differing opinions.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that children under four years old are not developmentally ready for formal swim lessons, and there is no evidence supporting early lessons improve proficiency.
Additionally, water immersion may increase the risk of infections.
I believe that children can benefit from swimming lessons at a very young age.
In fact, I think that
babies as young as 4 months old can benefit from swim classes.
While some experts caution against starting formal swim lessons too early, there are many benefits to introducing infants and toddlers to the water.
One of the most significant benefits of starting swim lessons early is that it helps children become comfortable in the water.
By gradually exposing babies to water in a controlled environment, they can learn to enjoy being in the water and
develop confidence.
Swim lessons can also provide opportunities for parents to bond with their children and foster a love of physical activity.
As a parent, I can attest to the benefits of starting swim lessons early.
My son, Ethan, never feared water because my husband and I introduced him to
swimming lessons as a baby.
This early exposure made learning to swim a relatively straightforward process for him.
As a swim instructor, I have found that most children who take lessons with me do it for the first time when they're four-plus years old, and 99% of them are uncomfortable with putting their faces in the water.
This anxiety about water can make learning to swim a more challenging and time-consuming process for these children.
That's why I believe that
starting swim lessons early can be so beneficial.
By introducing babies and toddlers to the water in a safe and controlled environment, we can help them develop comfort and confidence in the water.
It can pave the way for easier and more enjoyable swim lessons later on.
Some tips for parents who are considering starting swim lessons for their infants or toddlers
include:
- finding a qualified swim instructor who has experience working with young children,
- choosing a program that is developmentally appropriate and focused on safety,
- and make sure that adult supervision is always present when children are around
water.
With these steps, parents can feel confident that their children are getting a great start on their swimming journey.
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