The Muskegon YMCA is increasing the availability of water safety and swim lessons in
underserved communities this summer.
Part of the reason for the increase is “the Y’s” continued commitment to reduce drowning rates and keep kids safe in and around the water, but another reason for the uptick in access to swim instruction is because access to water safety classes was denied during the COVID pandemic.
In a typical year, the Muskegon Y teaches 1,100 third grade students in its “Safety Around Water” program. The number of students decreased to 200 in 2020. “We know there are children in our community who are now more at risk due to the need to maintain social distancing in 2020 and we want to make every effort we can to reach those kids this year,” says Switzer. In order to fill this gap, the Muskegon Y is providing their Safety Around Water program to fourth graders who were unable to participate in the program as a result of COVID.
The Muskegon Y has been a leader in providing swim lessons and water safety in the community for more than 20 years. The Y continues to help youth and adults A QWKK experience the joy and benefits of swimming. Programs offered includes a “Safety Around Water” class, “SPLASH” water safety lessons for families and the Muskegon Y Swim Team.
In addition to learning lifesaving water safety skills, children can increase their physical activity by swimming. Swimming motivates children to strive for self-improvement, teaches goal orientation and cultivates a positive mental attitude and high self-esteem. 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—skills that last a lifetime.
To learn more about the Muskegon Y’s swim programs, please contact Andi Switzer at 231.722.9622 x204 or aswitzer@muskegonymca.org.
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