10 Things You Need to Know when Teaching Your Kids to Swim

1. Readiness
As with any sport or skill, it’s always important to take into consideration your child’s age. While some parents may attest to the readiness of even months-old babies to learn how to swim (we have heard of stories wherein infants are tossed into pools!), experts from the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend starting your child on formal swimming lessons when he’s at least four years old. This is the age when your kid will be developed and ready and capable to learn the skills required for swimming (not that the AAP discourages infant and toddler aquatic programs).


2. Comfort in Water
Your child may not be comfortable yet in water, so keep in mind that you have to ease him into this environment so as not to startle or frighten him. Establish the swimming pool as a safe and fun place to be in by introducing games and toys made for water play.


3. Swimming Gear and Equipment
Safety is key at all times. Make sure you have floaters, kickboards, goggles and other essential swimming gear and equipment.  Discuss with your child safety rules such as no running near the pool, and make sure he understands the signs placed within the swimming area e.g., No Diving, etc.


4. Home Lessons or Swimming School?
Decide on whom you would want to give your child swimming lessons. Do you feel confident enough in your own skills as a teacher? Do you have a pool at home or at the clubhouse? Consider the benefits as well of enrolling your child in formal swimming lessons. Aside from letting your child interact with other kids who are learning to swim like him, you’ll also be assured of a structured program to guide him during the learning process. Swimming coaches are backed with training and first aid skills to ensure your child’s safety.

Click here to see more tips when teaching your child how to swim.

[previous|page|next]

Read on to see more tips when teaching your child how to swim.

5. First Aid Knowledge.
You never know when you might need to apply a lifesaving skill during an emergency. While we all hope that we never have to practice CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) on anyone, it’s always good to know basic first aid, just in case.


6. Constant Supervision
Keep your eyes on your child at all times. True, it’s good to let him assert his independence, but just be nearby at all times for your own peace of mind. Watch out for signs of discomfort or difficulty in breathing.


7. Sun Protection.
The sun’s rays coupled with chlorinated pools can be harmful for your child’s skin. Make sure to apply sun block or sun screen with plenty of SPF before going out into the sun, and reapply every few hours.


8. Hydration.
Keep your child hydrated and cool at all times by giving him water during breaks. The summer heat poses health risks like dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke.


9. Ear Infections
Being in the pool for long periods of time can expose your child to certain bacteria and cause ear infections in the process. To help prevent ear infections, make sure his ears are carefully cleaned after swimming.


10. Post-swimming hygiene
Give your child a bath with mild soap and shampoo to rid his body of pool chemicals or harmful bacteria.


SOURCES:
•    Kourtney Edam. “Teach Your Child to Swim” Parents.com
•    May 26, 2010. Vincent Iannelli, M.D. “Swim Lessons for Kids” pediatrics.com
•    March 18, 2010. Leslie Lee. “Beat the Heat: How to Protect Your Baby from the Summer Heat” smartparenting.com.ph
•    March 9, 2010. “13 Tips for General Child Swimming Safety” smartparenting.com.ph


Photography by Jake Versoza