Gaston County Kids Get Ready for Summer Thanks to YMCA Swim Programs
Programs offer a mix of fun , physical activity and safety to create a lifelong love of swimming
As the season turns from winter to spring , the Gaston County Family YMCA encourages children and parents to explore the many benefits of swimming , while also keeping safety top of mind . In Y swim programs , participants can enjoy water sports , enhance or learn new techniques , meet new friends and develop confidence , while also learning safety skills that can save lives .
“ Swimming is not only a fun , healthy activity , but an important life skill for all children ,” said Jeff Pesesky , Aquatics Director , Stowe Family YMCA . “ Learning basic water safety skills is a great introduction to the world of swimming that often continues with swim lessons and competitive swim programs , and can even lead to a career .”
As part of National Water Safety Month in May , the Gaston County Family YMCA encourages parents to take an active role in fostering a relationship between their children and swimming — beginning with water safety . Following are safety tips to practice when in and around the water :
• Only swim when and where there is a lifeguard on duty ; never swim alone .
• Adults should constantly and actively watch their children .
• Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket .
• Parents or guardians of young children should be within an arm ’ s reach .
• Children and adults should not engage in breath holding activities .
In addition to learning lifesaving water safety skills , children can increase their physical activity by swimming . Swimming also motivates children to strive for self-improvement , teaches goal orientation and cultivates a positive mental attitude and high selfesteem . It also teaches life lessons of sport and sportsmanship , so that children can learn how to work well with teammates and coaches and how to deal with winning and losing .
The Gaston County Family YMCA continues to help youth and adults experience the joy and benefits of swimming , so they can be healthy , confident and secure in the water . There are a variety of programs to choose , including family swim , Swim Club , swim lessons , water safety , lifeguarding courses and more . To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate , financial assistance is available to those in need to help cover the costs .
To learn more about the Gaston County Family YMCA swim programs , please contact Jeff at 704.822.9622 or jpesesky @ gastonymca . org today .
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4 • May / June • Parent Teacher Magazine