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When Is A Good Age to Start Swim Lessons
The short answer is 5 years old. The current thinking among pediatricians
& swim instructors is that at about 5 years old a child has
both the mental and physical development to process what they
learn in swim lessons. I agree that at 5 years old you generally
see kids picking up the swimming skills and making progress in
swimming.
Starting Them Young
I do think a child under 5 can get a lot out of a structured swim
lesson as well. Young children can get comfortable with the water,
floating, putting their face in the water and moving their arms
and legs. These classes should have small swimmer to instructor
ratios. Parent - child swim lessons are good for young swimmers.
Lessons for young kids should be shorter, about 30-45 minutes.
Playing Together
Another alternative to structured swim lessons for younger children
is bringing your child to the pool/water yourself and play with
her. Swim lessons for young children should focus on getting the
child comfortable in the water. You just playing with your child
in the water will be great for both you and your young swimmer.
See our article, children
swim exercises for play activities.
The key to either structured or informal swim lessons is consistency.
Your child needs to be in the water regularly to stay comfortable
with the water.
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