Learning to Swim at Any Age

Does your little minnow seem eager to swim? Here are the signs that he's really ready, plus a guide to which class is right for his age.

If your little puppy takes to water like a guppy, it may be time to sign up for swim classes. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), swimming instruction definitely isn’t a must-do by toddlerhood — and it isn’t for every tot, either, so don’t force the issue. But if your sweetie seems ready for splashing in something bigger than the bath, there’s no reason to postpone learning to swim. In fact, some evidence suggests that children over age one may be less likely to drown if they have had formal swimming lessons — definitely a compelling case for signing up your munchkin sooner than later.

How will you know if the time is right? If your child is good at following directions, physically coordinated so he can kick and paddle at the same time, and emotionally ready (read: not afraid of the water), all swim signs point to go. In that case, look for a swimming-readiness program that’ll teach him the basic moves — how to float, for instance, and dog paddle. Look for small classes (fewer than six students) with instructors who are certified in CPR, first aid, and water safety.

A few more swim class considerations:

• For little ones six-months to age three, seek parent-and-child aquatics classes (most local community centers offer one) led by trained professionals who teach water entry and exit, bubble blowing, front kicking, and back floating. They should also provide water-safety instruction for you.
• For swimmers ages three and four, you can try programs that hold classes for kids both with and without parents. Try to find one that focuses on safe pool behavior as well as paddling and kicking.
• For four- and five-year-olds who are already accustomed to water, consider classes that run up to 30 minutes over an eight- to ten-week period so kids can build on foundational skills and eventually move on to coordinating movement of the arms and legs.

The most important lesson about swim classes -- they don’t protect a child from drowning, and they’re never a substitute for constant adult supervision in the water. Parents should always remain within arm’s distance when a child is near or in a body of water. Also note a substitute for that all-important supervision: floaties, water wings, or inner tubes. While these swimming aids are fine if you’re in the water right next to your tot, they can’t be counted on to keep her safe.

Source:  http://www.whattoexpect.com/family/learning-to-swim-age-by-age