Parent Teacher Magazine Gaston County Schools September 2014 | Page 5
Swim Programs Keep Youth Active and Teach Safety
This September, the Y is recognizing the importance of water
safety, empowering swimmers to practice safety when in or around
the water. As part of the Y’s commitment to strengthening community
through youth development and healthy living, Gaston County Family
YMCA offers a variety of swim programs that teach water safety skills
and give children and adults the chance to explore the many health
benefits of swimming.
“Swimming is a fun and enjoyable activity for children and adults
alike, and it’s an easy way to stay physically active and improve
strength, flexibility and stamina,” said Jeff Pesesky, Aquatics Director.
“The Y encourages all children and adults to learn how to swim. It’s
never too late. Basic swimming skills and water safety practices save
lives every day.”
The Gaston County Family YMCA encourages parents to take an
active role in their child’s safety. Following are safety tips to practice
when in and around the water:
n Only swim when and where there is a lifeguard on duty; never
swim alone.
n Adults should constantly and actively watch their children.
n Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guardapproved life jacket.
n Parents or guardians of young children should be within an arm’s
reach.
n Children and adults should not engage in breath holding
activities.
Swimmers at the Y enjoy water sports, enhance or learn new
techniques, meet new friends, and develop confidence and a positive
mental attitude, all while learning lifesaving water safety skills. In
addition, swimming is a great way to help more children be physically
active.
As a leading nonprofit committed to youth development, the
Gaston County Family YMCA has been a leader in providing swim
lessons and water safety classes. There are a variety of programs to
choose, including group and private lessons for children and adults.
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’s swim programs,
please contact Jeff Pesesky, jpesesky@
gastonymca.org, or Candace
Hyde,[email protected], for more
information.
www.gastonymca.org
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Parent Teacher Magazine • Sept/Oct 2014 • 3