When your kids learn to swim, they’ve not only acquired important life skills, but they’ve also opened the door to opportunities for fun and fitness. Swimming is great summer fun, whether it’s on vacation at the beach or in your backyard.
It’s also a terrific workout that builds strength and coordination.
Get Them Comfortable With Water
The first step in helping kids learn to swim is getting them comfortable with water. You can begin introducing your kids to swimming as soon as they’re able to sit up on their own. They can play in a few inches of water in a small inflatable or plastic pool.
Encourage them to splash water and get their faces wet. Make a game out of putting your faces in the water and blowing bubbles. Give your kids small cups so they can pour water over their heads. Once they’re comfortable putting their face in the water, they’ll be ready for a bigger pool.
Sign Them Up for Lessons
Playing in the water is a good start, but to develop serious swimming skills, formal lessons are needed. Most pools offer group lessons, where children learn with others their same age and skill level. Private lessons may help kids who require more individualized attention.
Swim lessons can teach your kids the proper techniques for floating, treading water, and doing basic kicks and strokes. They can learn at their own pace and progress to the next level when they feel confident.
Get in the Pool with Them
Learning is a social activity, so let your kids have fun while learning to swim. You can do several activities together that will help develop swimming skills and give you both good exercise. In a deeper pool, hold on to your child as they swim, or use floaties or a vest.
As they grow, you can help them practice swimming skills. Using a kickboard, have your child kick their way across the pool. Older kids will enjoy holding their breath and diving to the bottom of the pool to pick up pool toys.
You’ll be amazed at how quickly your child will take to the water with a little encouragement. Swimming can be turned into a lifelong activity for your child, and there are great advantages to learning young. It can be done indoors or outdoors, and it’s a fantastic way to stay fit.
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