As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, summer beckons families to the water for fun and relaxation. While swimming is a delightful activity, it’s crucial to prioritize swim safety in Central PA. ESPECIALLY when it comes to our little swimmers. Here are five essential tips to ensure swim safety for your kids this summer:
Supervision is Key
Always keep a strong eye on your children when they’re in or near the water. Choose a responsible adult as the designated “water watcher” to closely supervise swimming sessions. Avoid distractions like cell phones or reading materials & stay within arm’s reach of young children or inexperienced swimmers.
Enroll in Swim Lessons near Harrisburg
Investing in swim lessons for your children is one of the best ways to promote water safety. Local swim schools offer classes specially designed towards different age groups and skill levels. They teach essential swimming techniques and water survival skills. By preparing your kids with proper swimming abilities, you empower them to navigate water environments confidently.
Establish Pool Rules
Set clear and age-appropriate rules for pool or water play. Ensure that your children understand and follow them. Rules may include:
- No running on the pool deck
- No diving in shallow water
- Always asking for permission before entering the pool area.
Consistently reinforce these rules to cultivate a culture of safety around water activities.
Use Safety Equipment
Next, stock your pool or backyard swimming area with necessary safety equipment, such as fences, gates, and pool alarms, to prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of accidents. Ensure that life jackets or flotation devices are readily available for weaker swimmers or inexperienced children. You should also encourage their use, especially in open water settings.
Educate About Water Hazards
Teach your children about the potential dangers of water, including strong currents, rip currents, and underwater hazards like rocks or debris. Emphasize the importance of respecting water and never swimming alone in unfamiliar or unguarded areas. Encourage open communication about any concerns or questions they may have regarding water safety.
Swim Schools in Central PA
In addition to these tips, preparing your little swimmers for the summer swim season can be further enhanced by enrolling them in reputable swim schools in the Harrisburg area. Here are three local swim schools that specialize in nurturing young swimmers:
Floats to Strokes: Floats to Strokes Infant Aquatics is a specialized swim program catering to infants and young children, aiming to instill water safety skills and basic swimming techniques from an early age. Beginning with gentle introductions to the water, including floating and breath control exercises, the program focuses on establishing a positive relationship with swimming. They emphasize individualized instruction and small class sizes. Also, instructors guide children through a progression of skills, from water survival techniques to basic strokes, all while making learning enjoyable and engaging.
Kids First Swim School: Kids First Swim School is a renowned aquatic education center dedicated to teaching children water safety and swimming skills in a supportive and fun environment. They have a focus on small class sizes and personalized instruction. Kids First Swim School tailors its programs to each child’s individual needs and abilities. Their experienced instructors guide students through a progressive curriculum designed to build confidence and proficiency in the water.
British Swim School: British Swim School is a leading provider of swimming lessons for all ages, with a focus on water safety and skill development. Their unique teaching methodology emphasizes survival techniques from the start, ensuring that even the youngest swimmers learn life-saving skills. With a variety of programs catering to all ages, British Swim School offers a supportive and encouraging environment where students can progress at their own pace.
In conclusion, by following these tips & investing in swim lessons for your children at reputable local swim schools, you can enjoy a summer filled with safe and memorable water adventures. Remember, swim safety is not just a seasonal concern. It’s a lifelong skill that can save lives! It can also bring endless joy to your family’s summer activities. So, dive in and make a splash this summer, but always prioritize safety first!
Kate McCord is a family and newborn photographer serving Central PA. If you’re interested in learning more about booking a session or about what I offer, please visit my website or email me!
