FAQ’s

Education

The National Institutes of Health released a study that supports the positive impact learn to swim lessons can have on young children and drowning prevention. It states, “Providing very young children with swimming lessons appears to have a protective effect against drowning and does not increase childrens’ risk of drowning.” Contrary to long held beliefs, introducing your infant to swimming lessons at even 6 months, does not encourage them to be overly bold and unsafe around water. The study concludes:Participating in formal swimming lessons was associated with an 88% reduction in the risk of drowning in children between the ages of 1 to 4. (Arch Pediatric Med. 2009; 163(3):203-210) Click here to read the full study.

We start our Otter Baby program at age 6 months. This is what feels comfortable for our instructors and curriculum. The real answer is… you know when it’s best to start. Because the Otter Baby program requires an adult, it is really more important to have Mom and Dad on board for the weekly visit, the changing room, getting wet, singing “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” 5 million times… than baby. What works for you will work for baby. Most parents tell us this is a wonderful time with their children and some tell us it is the half hour they get to relax and tune into their baby. Try us when you’re ready.

The best time to start lessons is when the child and the family are ready to learn. Our classes are starting constantly and we may be able to get you into a class this week. The biggest factor in children doing well in swim lesson is consistent attendance and supportive parents. Some children take longer to warm up to new experience and parents that in for the long haul are able to get past this initial reluctance.

Categories: Education, General

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Customer testimonial

“Ms. Sarah has an excellent rapport with my son. She understands that if he doesn’t feel comfortable then he won’t make progress.”

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Latest Blog Post

Little Otter Swim School UPDATE – COVID-19 Coronavirus

Hi Little Otter families, Lory and I hope everyone is safe and healthy. We are still paying attention to our government and health authorities. As you have probably heard, Governor Cooper has extended Safer at Home until May 8. Little Otter will be closed at least until that time. We will not be billing your…

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