People frequently ask us, here at Foss Swim School, “How long will my child need to take swimming lessons?” This is a simple question and makes a lot of sense for those like myself weighing out cost in exchange for results. Inquiries can vary a little when considering the different levels we offer. For example: How long will it take to pass this level? We also have parents swimming for different reasons and this begins to define in part how to answer questions around this topic.
A general answer is that it varies based on each individual swimmer. Some may be afraid to get wet from the splashing or putting their face in. We’ll see others pass from one level to the next until they run into a more challenging skill set – like rhythmic breathing or learning the butterfly. This question ultimately revolves around what the parents’ expectations are for their child regarding water safety and swimming. I believe we all want our children to be safe and it is equally as important to some to have a defined level of competency.
Since opinions can carry a considerable amount of different schools of thought defining even what “safe” is I’ll share some information and answer this question. Our goal is for each swimmer to be able to swim 300 yds to save their life (3 football field lengths). This distance has been studied and shows that most of those who can swim may be capable of swimming 200 yds before they begin to tire. The tiring is in part due to inefficient swimming and improper breathing. Both of which can be corrected through instruction. Once growth is shown in these areas the ability of any swimmer increases. Therefore, 300 yds requires swimmers to enlist these efficiencies to better help them out in the event they needed it.
As with any activity like violin lessons or math, continued application of skills helps instill experience, knowledge, and confidence. All of these attributes help develop the same in swimming.
All great points! I would like to add that it is very noticeable to the instructors and staff which kids practice the skills outside of lessons. When talking safety, it is one thing to be comfortable in a pool (shallow in our case). It can be very different in a deeper, unfamiliar pool and/ or lake. For safety sake, it is extremely important to practice the skills in bodies of water OTHER than the place your kids may take lessons. This may aid in a panic type situation later. Let them know where the dangers may lie, set specific safety rules, and WATCH YOUR KIDS.
Excellent Michael! I really like how you’ve stated this. It’s very true. What my expectations for Mae next week at lessons, even being involved as an owner of Foss, are probably LESS than what many other parents might expect. So there is a lot of weight to the expectation of every parent, even differing amongst each of their chidren! But as a busy parent, with all the activities you haul your kids to…..it does seem like learning to swim takes longer than other sports…..which leads to the realization that the achievement of a continuous 300 yard swim……is REALLY an achievement and can’t just be demonstrated by a young child after a few lessons. It does look appealing to quit once you’ve seen your child swim a length or two or freestyle. But as you’ve stated well above, that may not be enough if a child is in a dangerous situation where it’s critical to have MORE endurance and proper skills to save your life. Thanks for the message!