Spending Winter by the Water

There is a lock on the backyard pool, the beach towels have not been used in months and a seat in front of the heater seems much more appealing than venturing into the wet weather outside. So why are swimming lessons so important in winter?

Keeps children and parents thinking about water safety

The weather may have put a stop to many of our outdoor activities but it does not mean that backyard pools, beaches, rivers and dams, even bath water, cease to be a potential water safety hazard. To young children water is exciting and attractive, no matter how cold it may be outside!

Over the past year, 249 people tragically drowned in Australia and an estimated 551 people were hospitalised for non-fatal drowning. Surprisingly a third of these drowning’s occurred in the months of Autumn and Winter. Involving your child in swimming lessons could save their life.

Does your child know how to call for help when they are in trouble? At Just Swimming we discuss potential hazards with our students all year round, as well as teaching them essential swimming and water safety skills.

Prepares children for the summer months

Swimming is like learning a new language; it takes time and consistency. It is not something you can simply learn overnight. This is why it is so important for children to learn to swim during the winter months, so that come Summer, when a child is more exposed to aquatic environments, they are more equipped to swim safer.

It’s good for your health and wellbeing

Swimming is a great way to keep active during the winter months. We are lucky in Victoria to have a number of indoor aquatic centres that are heated and keep you sheltered from the elements. Why run around in the rain when you can dive into a warm pool! As swimming works every major muscle group it is a great way to increase muscle strength, fitness and endurance. It also promotes the release of endorphin’s, which leave you feeling happier, healthier and less stressed.

Research has also found that swimming makes you smarter! A study was conducted showing that young children and toddlers who participate in year-round swimming did better in the classroom.

This time of year is also a great time to check that fences around pools and covers over spas are locked and secure. Additionally, it may be a good idea to check out the local dam or river in your area. Increased rainfall and faster flowing water during winter, may mean that their banks and surrounds are no longer safe for children to play.

These are just a few of the reasons why swimming lessons are important all year round!