Swimming lessons for infants and toddlers

Question 1

What is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death in 1-4yo?

Answer 1

Drowning

Question 2

What is a risk of swimming lessons for young children?

Answer 2

Water intoxication (hyponatremia, seizures)

Hypothermia

Otitis externa

Question 3

When should infants begin swimming lessons?

Answer 3

Not before age 4yo

1. Swimming programs for infants and toddlers less than four years of age should not be promoted as being an effective drowning prevention strategy.
2. Children less than four years of age do not have the developmental ability to master water survival skills and swim independently. Aquatic activities and swimming programs for these children should focus on building confidence and educating parents regarding water safety.

Question 4

What are the recommendations regarding swimming instruction?

Answer 4

Swimming instruction should be carried out by trained instructors in pools that comply with current standards for design, maintenance, operation, and infection control (to reduce the risk of hepatitis A, gastroenteritis, skin infections, etc.).

Question 5

What are the CPS recommendations regarding water safety in young children?

Answer 5

1. Residential pools should be fenced on all four sides, and must include a self-closing, self-latching gate. Check with the local municipality for other requirements, such as height and type of fencing.
2. Constant arms-length adult supervision is recommended for toddlers and infants near water (pools, bathtubs and natural bodies of water). Infants placed in water must be held by an adult at all times.
3. Government-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) should be used for all young children and those who cannot swim. PFDs are not a substitute for supervision.
4. Parents and pool owners should be encouraged to receive first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, and to maintain an emergency action plan.