Parents hold their children in the pool as they learn swimming skills.
Did you know that the earth is 71% water, and the children in your life are 100% curious? As “America’s swim instructor,” the YMCA teaches children of all ages and backgrounds that water is fun, and not to be feared if you know how to stay safe.
- 9 in 10 U.S. Parents see swimming as a key life skill for children, on par with first aid skills or being able to prepare a small meal.
- 36% of U.S. Latinx/Hispanic parents, a much higher percentage compared to other parents, state that water safety isn’t a priority due to affordability concerns.
- 44% of African American parents have only beginner or no swimming abilities, a nearly 20% difference in comparison to other U.S. parents.
This March, a number of our locations hosted our Safety Around Water Program, offering free water safety lessons for children and their parents while providing them with the tools, resources and confidence to be water smart!
Over the course, children and their parents learned how to implement basic swimming skills such as: floating, blowing bubbles, the freestyle stroke, CPR, water rescue techniques and survival swim skills like pushing off the bottom of the pool to the surface.
As a parent, you can ensure your child reaps the health benefits of exercise, bonds with family and friends and takes pride in their water skills! Learn more about swim lessons at the Y today!