Why is it important for children to learn to swim?

Safety is one of the main reasons why it is so important that our children learn to swim. However, there are many other benefits. For example, it gives our children the opportunity to interact with other children in pools and at the beach. Swimming is also a very complete and healthy sport with Lifeguard classes near me.

The number of reasons why our children should learn to swim is for their own safety. Let's not forget that it is a skill that can save lives. The statistics prove it. A total of 728 children would survive each year if they simply knew how to swim. 

Swimming is a very complete, physical activity. It requires children to exercise their bodies and minds while having fun. One of the great things about swimming is that babies can start swimming when they are around 6 months old.

They must learn to feel comfortable in the water, blow bubbles and hold their breath. Any complete swimming program will also include teaching children how to float on their backs and tread water.

Learning to swim is incredibly rewarding. Among other benefits, it can literally save a child from a dangerous situation. Children are constantly exposed to dangers : rivers, lakes, harbors, boat trips, pools... Furthermore,  the earlier your child learns to swim, the more it contributes to overall mental and physical health.

10  reasons why it is important that your children learn to swim

1. It is essential for children's safety that they learn to swim

Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental injury-related death in children aged 0 to 14.  It is vital that children learn to swim from an early age. Parents need to make sure their children are comfortable and safe when moving in or near water with  American Lifeguard USA.

2. Swimming is a low impact sport

Considering that swimming takes place in water, 90 percent of the body floats. Therefore, gravity does not cause the body to hit the ground. Swimming offers endurance training. It is an ideal activity for toning the shoulders, arms, back and stomach.

3. Swimming is one of the most complete forms of sport

It contributes to a child's physical, emotional and neurological development. At the same time, it reduces the risk of suffering from cardiovascular diseases and it improves the metabolism . It also increases lung capacity – increasing a child's resistance to childhood asthma.

4. It's a budget-friendly activity

Many cities offer public pools and lakes that families can access for free or at a very low cost. Some schools include swimming as part of their curriculum,  and many universities offer scholarships for swimming.

Read Also: Can your child swim?

5. Swimming is a social activity

Swimming allows children to interact with their peers. It is a great opportunity for children to learn social skills and establish friendships.

6. Children learn the value of cooperation, self-motivation and going after their goals

Swimming offers challenges, achievements and rewards. All this helps our children gain confidence and belief in their abilities, which builds their self-esteem.

7. When children learn to swim, they acquire a skill they can use for the rest of their lives 

Giving children the opportunity to learn how to swim is a tremendous gift that will accompany them for the rest of their lives. Swimming contributes to your children's lifelong physical and mental health.

8. Swimming causes the body to release endorphins

As a result,  the risk of suffering from depression is reduced  and the mood is immediately improved.

9. Swimming is highly recommended for children with disabilities 

Children with autism, for example, tend to love water. This environment gives them a state of calm that can make them feel better.

10. Children learning to swim creates a foundation for other sports

The ability to swim opens the door to other water sports. Some of these include sailing, sport diving, canoeing, kayaking, surfing, triathlon, water polo, etc.

Parents play a fundamental role when it comes to teaching their children to swim. Their presence provides their children with a greater sense of security and stability, which strengthens the family bond.

Tips for parents

Below, you will find a list of suggestions to keep in mind when it comes to teaching your children to swim:

You should teach your children to swim as early as possible. It is best for children to learn to swim before they reach the age of 6.

For children to get used to the idea of ​​learning to swim, it is important for them to see other children swimming and having fun. This will help them associate swimming with having fun.

Parents should join the water  and accompany their children for as long as they wish.

The best thing you can do is to learn through play and capture your children's attention.

Also Read About: Lifeguard Course

It is important not to pressure your children. Stay as relaxed as possible so your children can relax too.

A relaxed environment will help your children enjoy the activity  and motivate them to learn to swim. Do your best to make it a positive experience that your child will want to try again.

These basic but effective tips will make the task of teaching your children to swim much simpler. As you have seen,  the benefits of swimming are countless and last a lifetime.