Swimming is a vital skill that can potentially keep toddlers out of trouble when they are near water. Even if you don’t have a pool nearby, these skills can come in handy later in life. Learning how to swim is also a great summer project that you can do together. It is also a physical activity that gets your toddler to exercise.
Your toddler does not need to be potty trained in order to begin swim lessons. There are special waterproof diapers made especially for the water. Public pools will likely require that your toddler don these types of diapers before getting in the pool to prevent accidents.
The typical lessons are 30 to 45� minutes long. Come prepared to deal with the sun and the water. Remember to bring the waterproof sunscreen or slather it on your toddler before you hit the pool. Pack a towel and a change of clothes. Have snacks ready for after lessons. Toddlers get hungry after all of that exercise.
Be prepared to join your toddler in the pool. Don’t be worrying about what you look like in a bathing suit and don’t let that stop you from giving your toddler lessons. Others in that class are also parents of toddlers and are probably a little self-conscious as well. If you are really not feeling up to swimming lessons with others, then consider private lessons.
There are a couple of places where you can find affordable lessons. Start by checking your local Parks and Recreation website for swimming lessons. They usually have lessons at a local pool. You can also find information from your local YMCA or recreational center. Some public pools may also offer more private swimming lessons. Your nearest high school that has a pool might also have information regarding lessons.
Swimming is an important skill for toddlers to learn even if you don’t live in an area where there are pools in every backyard. This is one skill that they carry throughout their lifetime.