Now that the colder weather has set in, it’s natural to want to pack away the swimsuits and goggles until next May when they’ll be put to good use again. At Swim Fins, we want to encourage you to not do that! We encourage our families to plan outings to the pool all year round and get in the water with them! Here’s why we think you should jump into the water with your kids every time they want to spend time at the pool:
Reason #1: Exercise and Health Benefits
Swimming is one of the few activities that uses all muscles of the body all at once so not only is it an excellent way to workout but it’s also an easy way to work multiple muscle groups all at once. The best thing about swimming as a form of exercise is that swimming games are easy and fun for the whole family! Whether it’s racing against Mom and Dad or playing tag in the pool, chances are everyone is going to be having so much fun, you won’t even think of it as exercise! Even the grandparents can join in on these fun activities as swimming is very beneficial and much easier on achy joints.
Reason #2: Practice Makes Perfect
Like any other skill, swimming skills are developed best with consistent practice. Without practice and consistency, it’s likely that skill regression may occur. At Swim Fins, we know that practicing swimming year round also means that your child is able to build their confidence in the water. Research has shown that in young children, repetition helps strengthen neural connections in the brain that are vital for learning. These connections eventually evolve the new skills into muscle memory which is vital during emergencies.
Reason #3: Safety
Water Safety is something we emphasize a lot at Swim Fins, and for good reason. Drowning is still the leading cause of death in children under 14 in Canada. By joining your kids in the pool, you make sure you’re close at hand in case of an emergency. Drowning can happen in under a minute and every second counts in an emergency. Your children will also be able to relax and enjoy themselves in the water more knowing Mom and Dad are close at hand and older children will be more than happy to pass the responsibility of a younger sibling back to you while they splash around close by, enjoying the sunshine.
Swim lessons are the basis for a fun time at the pool. Therefore, in preparation for your next family Pool Day, come check out some of our year round programs at our pools in Richmond, Surrey, White Rock, Langley, Cloverdale, and Abbotsford. For more information on our programs, how to register, and much more, head over to our website! Come swim with Swim Fins: https://www.swimfins.ca/register