Knowing how to swim is an important life skill that every kid should have. But signing up for parent-child swim lessons gives families a way to learn and laugh together. So, here’s what you need to do before arriving at the pool.
The perks of parent-child swim lessons
Your kids will thank you for signing them up in parent-child swim lessons, but it will be for more than just the fun of it. There are several advantages to enrolling in a class and these are just the top five:
- Your kids learn poolside safety. They also learn how to stay vigilant at the beach. Meanwhile, both lessons help prevent accidents whether they’re swimming with you or not.
- You get to see your child learn life skills. It’s always fun to watch your kids learn something new, and now you can walk hand-in-hand with them as they gain confidence in the water.
- The whole family can participate. That means you can make each class day into a full-blown family outing if you schedule it correctly.
- There’s something new for everyone to learn. In other words, your kids won’t be the only ones going home with an education.
- Everyone has a little fun. At the end of the day, you’re just swimming together in a pool while getting advice from an instructor – nothing serious.
Best of all, family swim classes are almost always budget-friendly if not free through a community resource. Search your local listings for more information.
What supplies will you need?
Parent-child swim lessons are easy to get into but that doesn’t mean you can skip preparation. Poolside courses typically have buoys, floats, and first-aid kits but that’s pretty much it. As the enrollee, you’ll be responsible for supplying everything else.
In general, the basic supply list looks a little something like this:
- Swimsuits
- Towels
- Swim shoes
- Goggles
- Snorkels
- Flippers
- Swim diapers (if needed)
- Shower products
- Toys
Keep in mind that you might also be required to bring along other items as well. But stuff like drinks, snacks, and cell phones should be kept in your locker for safekeeping though. As always, be sure to ask the instructor about specific supplies for each class.
How to sign up for parent-child swim lessons
It’s super easy to get signed up for parent-child swim lessons in your area. That’s because they’re usually available at your local schools, YMCAs, and community event centers. Also, you can sign up with private instructors to get one-on-one attention and preferred scheduling.
Before signing up, however, don’t forget to discuss the lesson plans. Find out what you and your child will be learning in class, and then talk to your child(ren) about what to expect. This will help them feel less nervous when they approach the water for the first time.
TIP: Have your kids “practice” different swimming techniques when they’re in the bathtub.
The takeaway
Parent-child swim lessons are inexpensive, convenient, and necessary for your child’s well-being and development. So, sign up today using one of your many community resources.