New to Bounty?
By Mark Collins
The lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 affected many things for children and their parents, but one side effect that may not be completely obvious to parents is the significant drop in swim skills in their children.
Swimming lessons were cancelled due to government restrictions across most states (and in some locations, multiple times throughout the year). This meant the peak swimming lesson periods from March to June was missed by most, and in Victoria, a staggering seven months went by where all swim schools were closed in 2020 alone.
Usually, it can take as little as three weeks for a child’s swim skills to drop off – so you can imagine the effect of months without swimming practice. Meanwhile, children’s confidence around water tends to remain high as they expect they can swim just like they could last time they were in the water.
It’s a worrying combination of facts that mean this year is one of the most dangerous we’re facing. A report from Swim Australia at the end of 2020 also found that 41 per cent of families would not think about swimming lessons for at least the next 12 months.
For those spending holidays by the water this summer and also around Easter (think camping near rivers and lakes) it’s important to keep water safety front of mind – even more so than usual!
Due to the pandemic, many parents cancelled their child’s swimming lessons.
Here are a few simple things parents can do to ensure their children stay safe:
It can take as little as three weeks for a child’s swim skills to drop off but their confidence around water tends to remain high.
Being more aware, extra cautious and making the right decisions could save a life!
This article was written by Mark Collins, who leads a team of highly experienced swimming instructors across Australia at JUMP! Swim Schools. JUMP! offers boutique facilities where children can learn to swim in an intimate setting. For more information head to: www.jumpswimschools.com.au.