Swimming is a valuable life skill that provides many physical and mental benefits for kids. From being a good overall source of full-body physical action to being an outlet for stress relief, swimming is a fun and engaging activity that can have a positive impact on kids in the Whittier area. 

Learning to swim also teaches kids important safety skills that can help prevent drowning — a leading cause of accidental death in children. We will review five reasons why swimming lessons are important for kids in the Whittier area, the importance of water safety, and the benefits of starting swim lessons at a young age.  

1. It’s a Foundation for Water Safety

Knowing how to swim can help prevent drowning and other water-related accidents, making swimming an important life skill that all kids (and adults) should have.

2. Promotes Physical Health

Physical activity is good for everyone. And swimming is a low-impact form of exercise that can improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility.

3. Good for Mental Health

It is never too young to discuss the importance of promoting mental wellness. Swimming has been shown to positively impact mental health, reducing stress and promoting overall well-being.

4. Helps to Develop Social Skills

Like a lot of sports, swimming can provide fantastic opportunities for kids to make new friends, work together as a team, and develop their social skills by interacting with peers and coaches.

5. Great Source of Fun and Recreation

All the character-building stuff is good but let’s not forget that swimming is also fun! It is an enjoyable sport for kids where they can develop a lifelong habit of physical activity. 

Don’t Forget About Other Aspects of Water Safety  

Knowing how to swim isn’t the only thing when it comes to water safety. There are a few other key points for kids and parents to keep in mind: 

  • Know your limits: Kids should understand their swimming abilities and to never swim beyond their comfort level or without adult supervision. 
  • Wear life jackets: Out in open water or on a boat? Kids should always wear a life jacket when in the water in these situations. 
  • Be aware of hazards: Kids should learn to watch for hazards in and around the water, such as deep water, currents, and underwater debris, drains, and obstructions. 
  • Emergency preparation: Kids and adults should be taught basic water rescue techniques, such as  throwing a floating device to a person in trouble. 
  • Swim with someone: Kids should not swim alone. Have a partner or adult present to supervise. 

Learn to Swim at the Whittier YMCA 

Do you know kids who would benefit from learning how to swim? The YMCA of Greater Whittier offers a variety of swimming lessons and programs for kids! 

Developed by a group of aquatic and child development experts and field-tested at pools across the country, our YMCA youth swimming lessons focus on learning how to swim while promoting personal growth and safety. Get more information.