Water Safety Essentials for Kids

Teach Your Kids to Swim

Babies and toddlers: Swimming lessons can help a young child feel comfortable in the water, but they won't prevent her from drowning. "Children are generally not developmentally ready for formal lessons until after age 4," says Dr. Smith. If you want to sign up for a class, choose a program that lets you stay in the pool with your child.

Preschoolers and older kids: After age 4, your child should learn how to swim, but you'll still need to supervise him in or around water. Look for a program that has certified instructors, groups kids according to their abilities, and includes water safety in the curriculum. Enroll your child in lessons every year to keep up his skills.