HOUSTON – As spring break approaches and families begin spending more time at pools, beaches, lakes, and other waterways, the YMCA of Greater Houston is encouraging children and adults to start swim lessons early to improve water safety before summer.
The organization recently launched a new swim lesson model designed to help swimmers of all ages and experience levels build confidence and develop important safety skills in the water.
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death among children in the United States. Officials say learning how to swim and understanding water safety can help reduce those risks.
“Now is a great time for everyone to learn how to swim and be safe around water,” said Stephen Ives, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Houston. “No matter where families or individuals are in their swimming journey, we want people to feel welcomed, supported, and confident as they learn.”
The YMCA says its new lesson model allows participants to start at the appropriate level based on their age and ability. Lessons are grouped by age and designed to gradually build swimming skills and water confidence.
With access to indoor and heated outdoor pools across the region, families can begin lessons now ahead of peak swimming season. The program is open to children, teens, and adults.
The initiative also builds on the YMCA’s existing water safety programs, including Safety Around Water, which provides hands-on education and water survival skills, and the “Phones Down, Eyes Up” campaign that encourages parents and caregivers to actively supervise children around water.
All YMCA aquatics programs are supervised by certified lifeguards and trained instructors. Financial assistance may also be available for families at select locations.
The YMCA says the goal is to make swim education accessible and help more people feel comfortable in and around the water as warmer weather approaches.
Families interested in swim lessons or learning more about local programs can visit the YMCA of Greater Houston website for registration and additional information.