Swim Library

The Right Age to Start Swimming Lessons

Benefits of Learning to Swim at a Young Age

Swimming is a fun activity, as well as an important life skill. Many parents often ask what the best age to start swimming lessons is. The truth is there probably is no right or wrong answer. If you did an internet search, you will see how many different opinions are out there.

We have children as young as three months taking swimming lessons! There are a number of factors a parent must consider before signing up their child for lessons, like why start swim lessons at an early age? We would love to take a moment to share the benefits of swimming at an early age.

Water Safety!

Lessons can definitely help reduce the risk of drowning! Drowning is a leading cause of death among children and toddlers, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Even the youngest babies can benefit from learning important safety skills – like what it feels like to be underwater and floating on their backs – that can save their lives!

Swimming Confidence

Studies have shown that spending time in the pool helps babies become more self-confident and boost their self-esteem (yes, really!). In a study by the Department of Psychology at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, children who had taken swim lessons from the age of 2 months to 4 years adapted better to new situations, had more self-confidence, and were more independent than non-swimmers.

Healthy Baby = Happy Baby

Swimming strengthens your baby on the inside! While swimming will help to develop their muscles and joints, it also improves the strength of their heart and lungs, and helps to develop their brain. Swimming can also improve their sleeping pattern - the extra exercise will help to make your baby sleepier (and you get some sleep too!).

Infants and toddler classes are a good way to teach your kids to enjoy being in the water and you can learn how to be safe in the water with your child. It is important to keep in mind that no matter what your child’s swim level is, a child is never completely water safe. Swim lessons, however, can make your child safer near the water. By starting young you can create a smoother introduction to learning, increase strength, physical and safety skills, and have lots of fun while doing so!