Why Learning to Swim is One of the Best Life Skills for Your Child
By Your Leisure
As a parent, you want to equip your child with the tools they need to thrive—and learning to swim is one of the most essential life skills you can give them. Beyond the fun of pool games and beach holidays, swimming builds confidence, keeps children physically active, and - most importantly - teaches them water safety that can save lives.
According to the Swim Teachers Association (STA), drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death in children, and teaching children to swim from an early age can significantly reduce this risk. The STA is a national organisation for swimming and is passionate about giving all children the opportunity to learn how to be safe in and around water. Their STA Learn to Swim programme, which is taught at our Thanet pools, is specifically designed to combine safety, skill, and enjoyment to help children become confident and capable swimmers.
Building Confidence and Resilience
Swimming lessons offer more than just stroke technique - they build emotional resilience and self-belief. From mastering their first float to swimming a full length, each milestone boosts a child’s confidence and gives them a sense of achievement. For children who may struggle in team sports, swimming can be a fantastic way to develop physical literacy at their own pace.
The STA’s progressive learn-to-swim journey, from Grade 1 to 7, helps children gradually build these life skills in a fun and structured way. This approach ensures children don’t just learn to swim - they learn how to enjoy and respect water safely.
A Lifelong Love for Fitness
Swimming is a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and coordination. It’s also low-impact, making it ideal for young, growing bodies. According to the NHS, children aged 5 to 18 should aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day - and swimming is a perfect way to hit that goal while having fun.
Regular swimming also establishes a positive attitude towards fitness from an early age, which can help form healthy habits for life.
Social Benefits in and out of the Pool
Group swimming lessons also offer an excellent opportunity for children to socialise and learn teamwork. They’ll meet new friends, support each other, and develop social skills in a structured but enjoyable environment.
For many families, swimming becomes a shared experience - whether it’s cheering from the sidelines, practicing together during free swim sessions, or celebrating the completion of a badge or certificate.
Water Safety Starts Early
The STA believes in the importance of learning vital water safety skills as part of every child’s swimming education. Their programme includes essential skills such as how to float, exit the pool safely, and understand water risks. This awareness is especially important for families living near the coast or who enjoy holidays by the sea.
Final Word: Start Early, Swim for Life
Whether your child dreams of becoming the next Olympic swimmer or simply wants to feel safe and happy in the water, swimming is an investment in their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
To find out more about our lessons and the STA’s Learn to Swim programme and join ONLINE HERE
