Always make sure children are accompanied by a trusted parent or guardian. Reassure them. Let them know you are there for their safety.
Don’t engage in breath holding activities. Children should not hold their breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming, as this can cause drowning and has several other severe physical side-effects.
Wear a life jacket: Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
Start with simple exercises to introduce a beginner to the water.
YMCA Swim classes start beginners in with Water Acclimation, Water Movement and Water Stamina.
Learn about Swim Lessons
The YMCA has long been America’s favorite swimming instructor. Whether just learning how to swim, improving strokes, swimming competitively or taking water exercise classes, members are in safe hands with our certified swimming instructors and lifeguards.
