What Parents Should Know About Swimming Lessons

Before going any further, here's the main thing parents should know about swimming lessons: all children should have them. Every year, over 4,500 people die from drowning in the United States — and, in fact, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4. Swimming lessons can't prevent all of those deaths, but they can prevent a lot of them. A child doesn't need to be able to swim butterfly or do flip turns, but the ability to get back to the surface, float, tread water, and swim to where they can stand or grab onto something can save a life.

As you think about swimming lessons, it's important to know:

  1. Children don’t have the cognitive skills to learn to swim until around 4 years old. They need to be able to listen, follow directions, and retain what they’ve learned, which typically develops around age four, though some children may be ready a little earlier.
  2. Swim lessons between ages 1 and 4 can still be useful. Younger children can pick up skills—like turning back to the pool wall—that may help if they unexpectedly fall into the water.
  3. The pool or beach must be safe. Check that the area is clean and well maintained, lifeguards are present (and not teaching), deep-water zones are clearly marked and restricted, and lifesaving and first aid equipment and posted safety rules are available.
  4. Teachers should be trained under recognized guidelines. Ask how instructors are trained and evaluated, and whether they follow standards from agencies such as the Red Cross or the YMCA.
  5. Class size and teacher-to-child ratio should be appropriate. For beginners and young children, instructors should keep all swimmers within arm’s reach. As skills improve, group sizes may increase but must remain safely supervised.
  6. There should be a clear curriculum and progression. Lessons should move from water acclimation to proficiency in various strokes, with children placed according to ability and regularly assessed for advancement.
  7. Parents should be able to observe part of each lesson. Whether through a window or deck, watching the start and end of class helps you see teaching methods and your child’s comfort.
  8. Flotation devices should be used thoughtfully. “Bubbles” and other aids can teach proper positioning and mechanics, but lessons should gradually reduce dependence on them.
  9. Fear of the water isn’t a reason to quit lessons. While you shouldn’t force a terrified child, gradual exposure and positive reinforcement—with a supportive instructor—can help overcome anxiety.
  10. Even capable swimmers need supervision. Fatigue, injury, entrapment, or disorientation can happen to any swimmer. Always supervise children around water and ensure they wear life jackets for boating and water sports.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website offers guidance on preventing drowning. The American Red Cross provides an online water safety course for caregivers and parents, as well as water safety videos for children. Many public pools and organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs and the YMCA offer swimming classes for all ages.