Swimming is an important life skill that should be taught at a young age. Why is this important? Here are four reasons why swimming skills that should be prioritized, especially for children.
Swimming skills save lives
It is likely that your child will have the opportunity to play in or around water at some point in their life. If they accidentally fall in or end up in the deep end of the pool by accident knowing how to swim will save their life. The most common cause of drowning is an adult or child falling into the water and being unable to get themselves to float or swim to safety. According to the Canadian Red Cross drowning is one of the top causes of death in children under four.
Swimming builds confidence
Learning to swim is a challenge that rewards accomplishments. This will help your child build self-confidence and belief in their abilities- especially in situations that involve the water. Encouragement is key. Learning to swim is a challenge for many children, but putting in the effort will be worthwhile in the long run.
Swimming promotes health
Swimming is an excellent form of exercise. It keeps one’s heart and lungs healthy, improves strength and flexibility, increases stamina and even improves balance and posture. It is also a low impact form of exercise that is great to continue into adulthood. A 2017 British study found that people who swim regularly live longer as the it keeps them fit both mentally and physically.
Swimming is fun
Most kids love splashing around in the water and if they know how to swim, they can do so safely. Knowing how to swim not only opens doors to sports like speed swimming, synchronized swimming and water polo, but also to activities on the water like kayaking, canoeing and boating. So many fun Canadian activities involve water and you don’t want your child to miss out because they can’t participate safely.
Enrolling your children in swimming lessons is a great way to start – especially if you yourself are not comfortable in the water. There are lots of great swimming programs available at public pools in the Ottawa area. Check out the City of Ottawa website to learn more.