Swimming is not only a fun activity for kids; it’s a great way for them to get some exercise. Many parents teach their kids how to swim at a local recreation center or water park, nearby lake, or in the swimming pool at home. Although parks are closed right now, your kids can still become proficient swimmers by practicing at home. If you’re not sure your little one is ready to swim, here's a quick guide to getting them started.

What's the Best Age to Start Swimming? 

Pediatricians recommend that you start teaching your child to swim by age four. However, some children can start younger than that. How soon they start swimming lessons should depend on how well they're developing physically, mentally, and emotionally, as well as how confident they feel in the water.

If you’re still raising a toddler, ask them how they feel about taking swimming lessons. You don’t want to force them into an activity they may not be ready for. 

What Are the Benefits of Swimming? 

Swimming is one of the best exercises that you can do, no matter your age. It improves your cardiac and respiratory health and burns calories—40 minutes of swimming is equivalent to running a mile. Swimming is also not too stressful on the joints compared to other exercises. 

Swimming can be good for your child's mental health too. Exercise reduces stress, and many kids who work out in the pool find it to be therapeutic and relaxing. 

Even if your child prefers other water activities, like boating, knowing how to swim is an invaluable skill that can save their life. 

Swimming Lesson Tips

For toddlers, the focus should be getting them used to the water. Hold them in the pool and allow them to splash and move around. Teach them how to kick, blow bubbles, and float on their backs—while still supporting them.

If your child is a little older, you can teach them a few techniques to do independently, but, of course, do so in the shallow end of the pool. Show them how to float and switch between standing and swimming positions. 

For kids around age six and older, you can show them more advanced lessons, like how to hold their breath under water, the different types of strokes, and how to jump in the pool safely. 

Swimming lessons are not only fun, but they also give kids a life-saving skill they'll carry with them into adulthood. The Jacksonville Parks & Recreation Department is committed to providing a safe environment for both kids and adults. Although the recreational centers and water park are closed right now, they look forward to supporting the community once again after this health crisis is over. If you have any questions, please visit them online or call (501) 982-4171.