As families across Southeast Texas prepare for summer pool season, water safety experts say one of the most powerful tools parents can give their children is swim lessons.
Experts at the McWilliams Family YMCA say prevention starts long before families head to the pool, lake, or beach.
The YMCA offers group, private, semi-private, and adaptive swim lessons designed for children of all ages and skill levels, including neurodivergent children and kids with special needs. Parent-child classes are also available to help young children become comfortable and confident in the water early.
According to YMCA Aquatics Director Kennedy Conlee, formal swim lessons can significantly lower the risk of drowning.
“Taking formal swim lessons reduces the risk of drowning by at least 88%,” Conlee said. “Swimming is a life skill. It could save your child’s life one day.”
Safety advocates say swimming should be viewed as more than just a summer activity; it’s a survival skill.
Swim instructor and head lifeguard Madyson McMunn says one of the most important habits children can learn is asking permission before entering the water.
“We always ask for permission before getting in the water,” McMunn said. “That helps build a habit not just here, but at home too, so parents are always aware.”
McMunn also emphasized the importance of involving parents throughout the learning process to help build confidence for both children and caregivers.
The YMCA says adaptive swim lessons are especially important for children with autism or other developmental needs because instructors can tailor teaching strategies to fit each child.
McMunn shared the story of one child with autism who initially refused to touch the water but eventually gained enough confidence to join the swim team after working closely with instructors.
Experts say the goal is not only to make children comfortable in the water, but also to teach life-saving safety skills that can help prevent tragedy.
The YMCA also says financial assistance is available for nearly all aquatics programs, emphasizing that cost should not prevent families from learning water safety this summer.