Teaching a child to swim is a critical life skill. Drowning was the second-highest cause of death for kids between 1 and 14 in 2007, according to the Centers for Disease Control. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, infant and toddler swim lessons will not make children safe; children usually are not ready for swim lessons until they are at least 4 years old. Swim lessons are never a substitute for close supervision of children around water.
Private Lessons
In private lessons, an instructor works individually with your child. These lessons are frequently available at recreational aquatic centers or private swim schools. If you have a home pool, some instructors will come to your home to give your child lessons. If you are considering a private swim school, request references to ensure that the program is appropriate for your child. These programs can be expensive, but they also can be effective, especially since many are year round and lessons often are in warmer pools than the recreational aquatic pool temperature. Look for a program that's strict but doesn't force your child. If your child isn't ready to learn to swim, forcing won't be effective.
Semi-Private Lessons
In semi-private lessons, an instructor teaches only a few students, typically in parent-child pairs. This method not only teaches the child basic water safety, but also teaches the parent the basics of what the child should be learning. Typically the parent and child get in the water together and an instructor coaches either from the pool deck or from the shallow end of the pool. These classes can be very helpful in teaching basic water safety and minimizing fear if your child has not had experience with water.
Group Lessons
In group lessons, an instructor provides technique and skills training to a group of like-skilled swimmers. Core skills such as diving technique, flip turns and basic stroke refinement can work well in a group lesson. Group lessons can also be an effective and inexpensive starting point for teaching kids to swim as the children see other children trying out the skills the instructor is suggesting. However, look for a small instructor-to-child ratio, because large classes don't allow the child enough time away from the wall or off the pool steps to become comfortable in the water and progress.
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