Drowning was the second leading cause of unintentional death in children ages 1 to 19 from 2000 to 2006, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Toddlers and teenagers face the highest risk of drowning. Swim lessons might help toddlers lower their risk of drowning if combined with constant, careful adult supervision.
History
For years, the AAP recommended against swimming classes for toddlers, mostly due to concerns about the developmental appropriateness of these types of lessons for children between the ages of one and three. At the time, little evidence proved that toddler swim lessons could decrease a child's risk of drowning. The academy also expressed concern that swim lessons would take away children's natural fear of the water, as well as giving parents a false sense of security about their child's safety while in the water.
Significance
In 2010, the AAP reversed its stance on toddler swim classes based largely on the results of a small study report from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, which concluded that toddler swim classes do not increase a child's risk of drowning and might actually lower their risk of drowning. The academy does not recommend mandatory swim classes for all toddlers; but instead, it suggests that parents take a number of factors into account, including the child's exposure to water, emotional development and physical development, when deciding when their toddler is ready for formal swim instruction. Check with your doctor for guidance on when to start your toddler in swim classes.
Considerations
No swim classes can drown-proof your child, according to Dr. Jeffrey Weiss, the lead author of the AAP's policy statement. Weiss cautions that swim classes are not a substitute for adequate parental supervision. He recommends parents use swim classes, along with pool barriers and constant supervision, to provide layers of protection for toddlers. Parents should also learn CPR and keep safety equipment, like a shepherd's crook, a portable phone and a life preserver close to the pool.
Safety Tips
Following some basic safety tips can help keep your toddler safe in or around the water, according to the KidsHealth website. Always keep your toddler within an arm's reach while in the pool, even if she swims well. Don't rely on floaties and swim vests to keep her safe. Although these are fine to use when you are in the water supervising your child, they are not a substitute for supervision or approved life vests. Whether you have a free-standing above-ground pool, a large inflatable pool or an in-ground pool, invest in a sturdy four-sided fence that is at least 4 feet tall.
