Like anything else the age will vary from child to child but most children are developmentally ready for swim lessons when they are about three to four years old. Younger kids are not able to listen to the instructor for any length of time or to follow instructions and staying safe in the water is by far the most important skill you can learn. Prior to being developmentally ready children's brains and bodies are less able to coordinate the motions of the swimming strokes.

You and your toddler can start with a parent-child water orientation class, in which you as the parent accompany them everywhere including locker rooms, swimming pool and all surrounding pool areas. These shared classes expose your child to water, teach important safety and are a fun bonding experience for both parent and child.

Swim lessons for 3 years and older whom are developmentally ready focus on aquatic readiness skills that are geared for the swimmers individual ability. Classes are usually grouped by both age and skill level. Working in small groups, kids learn breath control, water-safety rules, and the basics of swimming arm and leg movements.

It is never to early to introduce children to swimming pool, but do what is appropriate at the time for you and your child and always practice water safety when in and around the swimming pool.