~ Submitted by the Bedford Health Department
Before we learn to walk, we must learn to crawl, so we must also learn how to doggie paddle before we can safely swim! People of all ages are encouraged to take swim lessons. Swimming is a great form of physical activity for all ages as it incorporates the entire body; creates endurance, strength, and flexibility; is a great way to cool off and enjoy time with friends and family; and most importantly can save a life. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends all families make learning to swim a priority, as it is an important life skill that can play a key role in helping to prevent drowning.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of March 10, 2022, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes for children ages 1-14. While children are at highest risk, drowning deaths occur at every age. Every year in the United States there are an average of 11 fatal drowning per day and an average of 22 nonfatal drownings per day. Swimming lessons can help to reduce the risk of drowning and build a swimmer’s overall confidence in the water.
Why are swim lessons important? Swim lessons can help save a life. Lessons help adults and children become more comfortable and confident in the water, teaches them to float, and safely operate in the water. This skill empowers children and adults to attend social gatherings with friends and family in and around the water comfortably. Those that know how to swim are far more equipped to rescue someone in an emergency who may be struggling to swim. Teaching young children to swim improves their self-control, boosts their self-esteem, and gives them more self-confidence to handle new situations. Swimming also helps develop healthy muscles and improves cardiovascular health and performance.
Who should take swim lessons? Swim lessons are beneficial for all ages, including youth and adults. Drowning is a risk for all ages, especially in the presence of strong waves, currents, and other hazards. Swim lessons are progressive, so continuing with long term lessons will assist you in becoming a stronger swimmer.
When should my child start swim lessons? The AAP recommends swim lessons as a layer of protection against drowning that can begin for many children starting at age 1, with parent-child swim classes. Most children are ready for independent swim lessons by their fourth birthday. However, children develop at different rates, and not all children are ready to begin at the same time. When making your decision, consider your child’s emotional maturity, physical and developmental abilities and limitations, and comfort level in the water. Talk to your primary care provider and to a swim professional.
Different types of swim lessons available? Different swim lessons or levels offer different types of skills you can learn. Basic child and adult swim lessons focus on learning the fundamentals and building confidence in the water. More advanced classes focus on building independence and learning how to improve specific strokes or treading water for long periods of time. Other classes focus on competitive swimming, building speed, technique, and endurance.
Is swimming a healthy choice? According to the CDC, swimming can help with chronic diseases and mental health. Swimming is a low-impact cardiovascular exercise that engages a variety of muscle groups, making it a full body work out. Water-based exercising, such as swimming, improves the use of joints affected by arthritis and can help seniors exercise in a healthy environment.
Where can I find nearby swim lessons? To find swim lesson locations near you, use the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’s Department of Conservation & Recreation online search tool: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dcr-learn-to-swim-2022.
Additional nearby locations offering swimming lessons can be found using the list below:
Bedford Recreation Dept. – Summer Adventures Program
Bedford
https://www.bedfordma.gov/summer-adventures-0
781-275-1015
Y
Seasonal Membership
Beede Swim and Fitness Center
Concord
https://www.beedecenter.com/
978-287-1000
Y & A
Member and Non-Member
Boys & Girls Club
Billerica
https://www.billericabgc.com/swim-lessons
978-667-2193 ext. 109
Y
Annual Membership
British swim school at LA fitness
Stoneham
https://www.britishswimschool.com/greater-boston/
978-710-9393
Y
Annual Rate & Per Lesson Fee
Goldfish Swim School
Burlington
https://www.goldfishswimschool.com/burlington/
781-917-3245
Y
Annual Rate & Monthly Fee
Goldfish Swim School
Westford
https://www.goldfishswimschool.com/westford/
978-704-8040
Y
Annual Rate & Monthly Fee
Lexington Recreation Dept.
Lexington
https://www.lexingtonma.gov/1081/Town-Aquatics
781-862-0500
Y & A
Daily, Weekly or Seasonal Membership
For any additional information please contact the Bedford Health Department at 781-275-6507 or visit https://www.bedfordma.gov/health-department
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