Swimming is an ideal activity for kids to get involved in for various reasons. It is a great way to get kids interested in water sports, find a new outlet for exercising and learn a few things about discipline and control. The sport of swimming is one that truly can benefit a child in multiple ways and some of the top reasons why are rooted in the physical, emotional and personal growth kids achieve when they learn to swim.

1 Confidence

Children will build confidence by learning to swim, and especially if they follow a formalized program such as New York City swimming lessons. This is because children who have never been swimming before may have a fear of jumping in to the water. This is alleviated over time as the trained instructor teaches the kids how to swim and thus build their confidence in learning new things and getting over their fears.

2 Self Esteem

A child, as they build confidence, will also build self esteem. This happens through swimming as kids learn how to swim better over time and thus they gain confidence in their abilities to learn and master new tasks. This can boost self esteem as kids like to learn new things and be praised for their progress.

3 Sportsmanship

Swimming lessons where other children are involved help to teach children about sportsmanship. This is because many swimming lessons have group portions where kids swim against one another. This is a good lesson in learning that even though one is learning and excelling at a new sport they may not always be the best in the group. This also helps kids make new friends and learn about teamwork.

4 Safety

Safety is a top reason to have kids formally learn how to swim. This will help them as they go through life and find themselves in situations where they are going to be in or around the water. The act and sport of swimming will help ensure kids know the rules of the water even when they are away from home and even those who can swim relatively well will be safer when they are in areas where water is present.

5 Discipline

Discipline is another key reason to get kids involved in swimming. This is because swimming is an endurance sport and is also one where skills improve through hard work, determination and practice. This gives children the building blocks of discipline as they quickly learn that to excel at swimming takes practice and that is fueled through discipline.

About the author: Kristene Blackham Is a freelance writer and a lover of the outdoors and traveling. She uses her spare time with her husband and cat. Her dream is to travel the world one day and try all the amazing food.