During the winter, families are more likely to stay cooped up in the home because of the cool temps and shorter days. But, there is one activity that can be enjoyed year round and that’s swimming! In fact, if your child takes swimming lessons, a year-round class allows them to excel in their skills without taking steps backward. 

If you are thinking about signing your child up for swim lessons, we recommend year-round classes. Below you’ll discover the many benefits to doing so. 

Learn vital safety and drowning prevention skills.

Swimming is a wonderful activity for kids of all ages, but it does come with some safety risks. According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 1-4. However, the best way to prevent drowning isn’t by staying away from the water. Instead, prevention comes from learning proper swim skills. 

By taking swim lessons year round, your child will learn valuable skills that will keep them safe around water. The AAP reports an 88 percent decreased risk of drowning for children who are enrolled in a consistent swim program. The program you enroll your child in should follow a curriculum that teaches proper breath control and rolling from front to back. 

Retain and improve skills through continued practice.

When your child gets to practice in the water every week, they retain and improve their skills faster. Plus, being in the pool regularly reduces their fear of water and encourages them to try new things like holding their breath underwater. Additional skills they’ll learn as they progress through their classes are the elementary backstroke, back floating and rhythmic breathing. 

Relieve stress, release energy and prevent boredom. 

How many kids have a harder time concentrating in the winter? Plenty. Kids benefit from playing outdoors and releasing built-up stress and energy. As a result, they tend to perform better in school and sleep better at night. Additionally, many children find that when they’re in the water, they forget about homework, school and other problems. Exercise releases feel-good endorphins in the brain, which is the reason for the boost in mood. 

Boost physical activity and health. 

If your child doesn’t participate in year-round sports, swimming is an excellent way to fill their schedule. Year-round swim classes keep your child active, regardless of the weather outside. During their lessons, your child will engage in endurance and flexibility exercises that strengthen their core. Plus, swimming is a low-impact, no-contact sport, so you don’t have to worry as much about their joints and physical well-being. 

It’s important that kids have the time to be kids. But, sitting indoors cooped up in the winter isn’t fun for anyone. Year-round swim lessons promote physical activity, develop social connections and form happy memories. By the time summer rolls around, your child will be a safe and confident swimmer who knows their way around the pool.