When to Start?

According to research, the ideal period for a child to begin learning the basics of swimming is between ages 1 and 4. However, children as young as 6 months old can participate in Parent and Child Lessons at a local YMCA, which can help them get used to the water with the presence of a parent. These lessons also educate parents on crucial water safety skills to keep their children safe. On our website Parents can find useful resources on effective practice drills using our Sharky swim trainer. However, if your child is over 4 years old, it is not too late to start learning to swim as children can learn important swimming techniques such as floating quickly utilizing a swim belt such as Sharky. 

Enrolling your child in swimming lessons between 6 months and 4 years old is an effective way to help them adapt to water, which can reduce the fear of swimming as they progress through the learning curve. Fun fact: The Sharky float speeds up the learning process of swimming by up to 30%. 

Benefits of learning to swim at a young age

Learning to swim at a young age offers various mental and physical benefits for your child's development, safety, and lifelong survival skills. Swimming provides a strong foundation for a healthy & safe lifestyle, exercising vital areas of physical development. Moreover, these lessons offer an opportunity for children to practice their social skills by meeting other children their age. The Sharky floatie builds children's confidence in a playful way, turning practices into an exciting game. Coaches or Parents can encourage young children to swim like a dolphin or a sharky using our fin shaped floatie which can’t deflate! Finally, learning to swim at a young age without fear can prevent water-related trauma & encourage children to pursue new sports with confidence in the future.