Is There a Right Age for Kids To Learn How To Swim?

Maybe you’ve seen those social media videos of people tossing tiny babies in a pool as part of their swim training. It looks thrilling and terrifying at the same time.

It’s enough to get you wondering — is that even safe? And when should kids learn how to swim? And is it too late for my tot?

We talked with pediatrician Richard So, MD (also a proud dad of an accomplished swimmer!), about when, how and why to teach kids to swim.

What’s the best age to start swim lessons?

The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that most kids should start learning to swim by the time they’re 4 years old.

And earlier is better for some children, Dr. So says. Especially if:

• You have a pool at home or at a place they visit often. The more opportunities there are for kids to swim regularly, the more important it becomes for them to learn about water safety and develop basic swimming skills early in life.
• You live near a pond or other body of water. Kids can be drawn to ponds, lakes, creeks and other natural bodies of water. If there’s one nearby, your kiddo will be safer if they know how to swim.
• You own or use a boat regularly. Even if you’re not looking to make your boating excursion into a chance for a dip, it’s best for kids to be prepared. Accidents can happen, after all.
• Your child is (or may be) autistic. Surveys have shown that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be more likely than others to elope, or wander away from a safe environment. That’s part of the reason the American Red Cross reports that autistic people are 40 times more likely to die from drowning than the general population.

The reality is that it’s never too early or too late to start developing some swimming skills and a sense of security in the water.

“There’s not necessarily a ‘best’ age that’s right for every kid to learn to swim,” Dr. So clarifies. “But it’s important for them to be comfortable in the water and know what to do to be safe.”

Tips to get kids comfortable in the water

Some kids take to the water like little fish — no fear. Others need more encouragement. That’s OK.

If your little swimmer is anxious about getting in the water, you can start small, before you ever even sign them up for lessons.

Here’s what Dr. So recommends.

Start in the tub

Bathtime can be a good time for your little one to splish, splash and get familiar with water.

“Often, kids’ biggest fear about swimming is just putting their head in the water,” Dr. So acknowledges. “You can help them get used to it in a controlled environment.”

Simulate an underwater experience by dripping water over their head, using a cup, a strainer or the shower head. Encourage them to blow bubbles as you pour.

When they’re comfortable with that, fill up the tub a little higher than usual (keeping a vigilant eye and a hands-on approach) and encourage them to blow bubbles in the water.

Little kids can also get used to wearing goggles in the tub (or in the shower for bigger kids). Let them wear the goggles while they clean up and encourage them to open their eyes as the water drips down their face.

Practice safety

Kids who are less familiar with the water should have a trusted adult within arm’s reach in the pool with them at all times. And even kids with some swimming skills should be monitored by a dedicated adult at all times. That’s important for safety and also helps kids to feel more comfortable and confident in the water.

Proper safety equipment matters, too. Kids should wear Coast Guard-approved life jackets to help keep them safe until they’ve proven to be capable swimmers.

Remember that sunscreen is an important part of outdoor safety as well. And choosing the right sunscreen can even help keep kids comfortable in the pool.

“Make sure that your sunscreen is water-resistant,” Dr. So advises. “That can help keep it out of kids’ eyes. That way, sunscreen irritation doesn’t become one more reason kids are hesitant about swimming.”

Try some positive peer pressure

If your toddler or older child isn’t jazzed about swimming, see if you can partner up with a friend who is.

“When possible, see if you can sign up for swim lessons with a buddy,” Dr. So suggests. “They might feel more comfortable if they see their friend being brave.”

Benefits of early swimming

“Swimming is like riding a bike — it’s a life skill that everyone should learn,” Dr. So recommends.

Getting kids comfortable in the water is important for:

• Safety. It’s a scary fact of reality: Drowning is a top cause of death among children in the United States. Kids need to learn what to do in case of a water emergency.
• Confidence. Learning new skills, like swimming, helps children develop self-esteem, resilience and grit.
• Exercise. Water can be a real workout, for kids and adults alike. Even a friendly game of Sharks and Minnows helps kids build strength and get some aerobic exercise. Later in life, those swimming skills can come in handy for everything from school swim teams to water aerobics.
• Social interactions. Kids who can swim get to enjoy pool parties and beach vacations to the fullest. No one wants their child to be the one standing on the sidelines while the others are enjoying time in the water.

Final thoughts

Is your little one ready to take the plunge?

Dr. So says that swim lessons are a good place to start. Look for lessons taught by certified instructors. Some swim schools may also offer teachers with specialized training for kids with autism and others who may benefit from additional support.

However and whenever you get your kids swimming, keep it safe and fun!