According to the Child Safety Network, nearly 900 children and adolescents lose their lives to unintentional drowning in the U.S. each year. Drowning can happen quickly and silently, often in less than 30 seconds. In a state like Minnesota, where water is everywhere, teaching kids how to swim is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents and give them the confidence to navigate the water safely.
5 Reasons to Enroll Your Child in Swim Lessons
1. Reducing the Risk of Drowning
Drowning is a silent and fast-moving danger, often occurring in less than 30 seconds. The CDC reports that it’s the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1-4 and a major risk for kids up to age 14. Swim lessons provide crucial safety skills, such as floating, treading water, and exiting a pool or lake safely, significantly lowering the risk.
2. 10,000 Lakes + Rivers + Pools
Minnesota is home to thousands of lakes, rivers, and pools, making water safety a necessity. Whether your child is spending time on a boat, playing at a lake, or swimming in a backyard pool, knowing how to swim ensures they can handle different water environments safely and confidently.
3. Confidence in the Water
Fear of water can hold children back from fully enjoying swimming and water activities. Learning to swim in a supportive, structured setting helps kids gain confidence, overcome anxiety, and develop a love for being in the water.
4. Health & Wellness Benefits
Swimming is a fantastic full-body workout that you can do well into your later years of life. It enhances cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and muscle strength. Beyond the physical benefits, swim lessons also help children build confidence, discipline, and focus—important life skills that extend beyond the pool.
5. A Potentially Lifesaving Skill
Swim lessons don't just teach kids how to have fun safely in the water. It teaches them skills like safely getting out of the water and how to help a friend in need without putting themselves in danger. By learning proper swimming techniques and water safety habits early, children grow into strong, confident swimmers who can enjoy the water safely for years to come.
Our Approach at Marshall Area YMCA
We offer a safe and supportive learning environment with certified instructors.
- Individualized attention in small classes.
- Gradual skill development at each child's pace.
- Engaging, fun lessons.
Enrolling your child in swim lessons is one of the best gifts you can give them—a foundation for safety, confidence, and a lifelong love of the water.
Learn More About YMCA Swim Lessons
Sources
- Children’s Safety Network. (n.d.). Disparities in U.S. childhood & adolescent drowning deaths. https://www.childrenssafetynetwork.org/infographics/disparities-us-childhood-adolescent-drowning-deaths
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 3). Drowning facts. https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/data-research/facts/index.html