In my capacity as a pediatrician, I have given innumerable families advice regarding the significance of swim safety.
However, I’ve experienced it all as a mother, from the anxious initial splashes to the triumphant, “I did it!” moments. Learning to swim is more than simply a milestone for kids; it’s a life-saving ability, a way to build self-esteem, and a route to happiness and health for the rest of your life.
To assist prevent drowning, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises families to surround children with several levels of protection. Among those crucial layers? instructing your child in swimming.
Learning to swim is a rite of passage that leads to a world of adventure, much like learning to ride a bike. It is quite amazing for parents to witness their children progress from clutching to the pool wall to confidently kicking over the water. And as a doctor, I am aware that those teachings provide the groundwork for lifelong confidence, safety, and fitness.
Children are drawn to water almost like a magnet. They are fascinated by water, whether they are splashing, leaping in, or just watching objects float and sink. Children can securely develop their innate interest and learn how to engage with water in a safe, fun, and courteous manner by taking swim lessons.
An excessive number of children die by drowning every year. It frequently occurs when an unattended child walks into a pool or other body of water.
Being able to swim provides an essential extra layer of security. Basic water safety practices can save the lives of even small children.
As a mother, that statistic is personal as well as clinical. Every parent wants their kids to explore and have fun. Learning to swim helps make that safe.
One of the greatest all-around activities for children is swimming. It’s a low-impact method of improving coordination, strength, and endurance. Additionally, it’s an opportunity for them to play, giggle, and splash like children.
Regardless of your child’s skill level, swim classes can help lay the groundwork for a healthy lifestyle. I have personally witnessed how the pool transforms into a place where kids of all sizes, shapes, and backgrounds feel powerful and free. As a mother, I also value how the pool has helped my family connect and enjoy each other’s company.
I’m capable! The meaning of those four words is profound. Children learn how to divide difficult tasks into manageable chunks during swim training. Their confidence in and out of the water is bolstered by that sense of ability. As our children become more independent, that is a potent present we can give them.
Children with particular health care needs also benefit greatly from swimming. For example, wandering puts children on the autistic spectrum at higher risk of drowning. However, by learning to swim, these kids learn safety skills and frequently benefit from increased motor skills, decreased anxiety, and even higher academic achievement.
Swimming can be a good approach for kids with ADHD to release energy and improve their coordination and focus. As a pediatrician who supports inclusivity, I have a strong desire to ensure that every child has safe and enjoyable access to water.
In order to prevent drowning, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises all children one year of age and up to learn to swim. Additional important measures include preventing unsupervised access to the pool, using flotation devices while in or near the water, and installing a four-sided pool fence that is at least four feet high with self-closing and self-latching gates that totally separate the pool from the home and yard.
Even very young children can learn basic water survival abilities like floating, reaching the pool wall, or turning to grip the edge through developmentally appropriate swim classes, but this does not guarantee that they will be Olympic-ready toddlers.
Around the age of four, when their physical and cognitive development permits them to master more complex swim strokes and safety techniques, the majority of kids are prepared for more structured, autonomous swim classes. However, early parent-child sessions (beginning at age 1) can help infants and toddlers develop a bond with their caregiver, learn important skills like safe entrance and breath control, and become comfortable in the water.
I vividly recall the splashy tunes, the timid toe-dips, and finally the broad, self-assured smiles from those early swim lessons with my children. It has the potential to save lives in addition to being adorable.
This can also be the ideal moment to learn if you’re not a confident swimmer yourself. In addition to being powerful, taking adult classes with your child sets an example of bravery and resiliency. Additionally, you’ll be more prepared to protect your youngster in the water.
Seek instruction from reputable institutions such as the YMCA, Red Cross, neighborhood swim schools, or your neighborhood leisure center. Make sure to look into what is offered in your region as many places also provide free or heavily discounted classes.
Swimming is only one aspect of swim instruction; other topics include safety, self-assurance, and independence. As a mother and pediatrician, I strongly advise you to locate a class, grab a towel, and get started. It’s a choice you won’t regret.
This is one of the happiest and most significant things we can do to safeguard our kids and provide them with the resources they need to succeed.
At Valley Children’s Hospital in Madera, California, Hailey Nelson, MD, FAAP, IBCLC, practices complicated care pediatrics. In addition to enjoying working with kids of all ages and skill levels, Dr. Nelson is particularly committed to giving medically vulnerable kids and their families the best care possible. The Tribune News Agency
