This is a paid piece from SafeSplash Swim School.
Simplified: You might not think your toddler is ready to jump into the deep end of the pool, but at SafeSplash Swim School, you'll see kids as young as 2 or 3 jumping into the water (or into their instructors arms in the water) and getting themselves safely back out. It's all part of SafeSplash's proven curriculum to teach water competency, keep kids safe, and calm parent fears.
Why it matters
- Drowning is the leading cause of death for kids age 1 to 4, according to the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, and water competency is a key component in preventing these tragedies.
- SafeSplash has partnered with the Drowning Prevention Alliance to encourage parents to make sure swimming is the First Sport their kids learn. The goal is to prioritize and teach swimming as a critical survival skill – before kids throw their first touchdown or perform their first dance recital.
- SafeSplash helps kids learn water competency, i.e. the ability to safely enter, move around, and exit water, through a proven curriculum that teaches even very young children to practice floating, breathing control and getting in and out of the pool.
"The first step to water competency is just getting kids comfortable in the water," said Dan Sobocinski, owner of SafeSplash's three Sioux Falls locations. "The comfort young children learn, especially in overcoming fear with fun while bonding with their parent in Parent-Tot classes, builds a foundation of confidence and safety in the future."
Tell me more
SafeSplash youth classes start with a Parent-Tot option, in which parents join their kids in the water to help them get comfortable going underwater, blowing bubbles and doing some supported front and back floats and kicks.
- Kids then move to toddler classes to help transition them to a regular class format in which they work on specific skills with an instructor.
As kids grow up, certified SafeSplash instructors help them progress at their own pace, leveling up when they're ready and taking all the time they need to build their skills.
The SafeSplash S.A.F.E.R. Swimmer Promise also kicks in when a swimmer 4-years-old or older enters the Beginner 2 level.
- That promise guarantees kids will be able to complete 10 essential safety skills and pass a safety test within one year of consistent lessons or additional lessons are free.
How can I get started?
You can learn more here about swim lessons for infants and toddlers, and get signed up for your first class at a location near you.
