Most toddlers enjoy splashing around in water, so you may be able to direct this attraction by enrolling your toddler in swimming classes. Swimming lessons aren't for every young child, but they may be just the ticket to help enhance your toddler's water enjoyment in a safe, controlled environment.
Background
In an official policy statement published in April 2000 in "Pediatrics" magazine, the American Academy of Pediatrics reaffirmed its 1980 recommendation against infant and toddler swimming lessons, noting that most children under the age of 4 lack the developmental awareness to fully grasp swimming skills. The AAP subsequently revised this statement in July 2010, acknowledging in "Pediatrics" magazine that swimming lessons for children between the ages of 1 and 4 don't seem to increase risk of drowning and may serve as a potential prevention strategy in certain cases.
Identification
Toddler swimming lessons should occur solely in swimming pools, typically in small groups or one-on-one instruction. These swimming classes generally require at least one parent to be present at all times, and most encourage a parent to swim with the child. Toddler swimming lessons primarily focus on helping children get more comfortable with water while learning basic aquatic skills, including water safety and using tools such as flotation devices and play objects. Make sure the instructor is certified in pediatric CPR.
Considerations
While some toddlers may be ready to take swimming lessons, others should wait until they're older to develop the appropriate physical or mental maturity. Before enrolling your toddler in swimming classes, talk to your child's pediatrician so he can assess your toddler's readiness for swimming lessons. Certain motor and cognitive disabilities or repeated ear infections may prohibit your child from participating in organized swimming classes until she's older.
Warning
Enrolling your toddler in swimming lessons will not eliminate the potential for drowning risk. In many instances, parents mistakenly relax rules and limitations once their children take up swimming classes. This false sense of security can endanger your toddler, warns the AAP. Minimize your child's chances of accidental drowning by using toddler swimming lessons in conjunction with other preventive strategies, such as 4-foot-tall swimming pool fencing, CPR training and constant adult supervision. Never use air-filled swimming devices as a substitute for a life jacket.
References
- "Pediatrics"; Swimming Programs for Infants and Toddlers; Dr. Steven Anderson et al; April 2000
- "Pediatrics"; Prevention of Drowning; Dr. Jeffrey Weiss et al; July 2010
- "The Mighty Toddler"; Robin Barker, RN; 2007
Member Comments