How does swimming benefit children?

When your child gains experience in being in the water, he will gain confidence and not be afraid of or intimidated by water.

Funny photo of active babies swim and dive with fun – jump deep down underwater with splashes in swimming pool. Family lifestyle and summer children water sports activity and lessons with parents. Picture: iStock

Here are some of the benefits that swimming can have for your child:

Physical health

Swimming can offer your child a whole host of physical benefits such as improving your child’s overall strength as well as flexibility, providing him with a great cardiovascular workout thus promoting good heart and lung health, and increasing stamina. In addition, it also helps to improve balance and posture as well as prevent childhood obesity.

Safety

When your child gains experience in being in the water, such as when he engages in swimming, he will gain confidence and not be afraid of or intimidated by water. This will lower your risk of an emergency should your child accidently fall into the water.

Emotional benefits

Swimming can aid your child’s mental as well as emotional health by helping to combat depression and improve overall mood.

Chat to your child’s paediatrician about the benefits of swimming and what a suitable age will be for your child to start swimming, especially if he or she suffers from any medical condition.

Source: livestrong.com

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