*Survival swimming lessons (i.e. ISR and Infant Aquatics) are designed for children aged 6 months to 6 years. Older children who cannot swim or float independently should be in a survival swimming lesson prior to any traditional lessons.
Not crying.” ISR has been a cause for controversy. The American Academy of Pediatrics says “there is currently no evidence that infant swim programs for babies under 1 year old lower their drowning risk.” Kreitman still recommends constant supervision, fencing and locks, but says that's not always enough.
Infant Swimming ResourceInfant Swimming Resource - Aquatic Survival® ISR's unique results are achieved through fully customized, safe and effective, one-on-one lessons with only your child and the Instructor in the water.
The programs are designed to “drown-proof” children, but many experts doubt these claims. What's more, there is evidence suggesting that the tactics used in ISR may create traumatic associations. As a result, older children may develop negative thoughts or fears about the water or swimming.
ISR is generally more expensive than traditional swimming lessons, too, the idea being that they're highly effective and don't need to be repeated. Booster sessions are, however, recommended. At ISR Manhattan, lessons cost $300 per week, for 6-8 weeks.
On one side is the American Academy of Pediatrics, which recommends that kids wait until age 4 to learn to swim. On the other are instructors who say they've taught children as young as 6 months to swim solo.
0:058:21"Infant Swimming Resource: Teaching Progression" with Harvey BarnettYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd open the eyes to the sensation to being underwater I'm feeling her breathing cycle here with myMoreAnd open the eyes to the sensation to being underwater I'm feeling her breathing cycle here with my hands and as she inhales. I take her underwater.
1:212:51How To Teach Your Child Back Floating (aged 2-5 years) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt is the hand underneath the lower back that is removed gently first encouraging the child to keepMoreIt is the hand underneath the lower back that is removed gently first encouraging the child to keep their tummy up. And then once the child gains confidence here.
In addition, infants and toddlers should avoid apple products throughout the duration of their ISR Lessons. Apple products are high in fiber, which can cause gas and bloating that will make the floating and swimming maneuvers practiced during ISR lessons difficult and sometimes painful.
Understand that there is a whole host of reasons as to why a kid might cry during their swim class: separation anxiety, fear of water, too many unknowns, the other kids splash your kid in the eye, it's too loud, fear of strangers, bad prior experiences with water or swimming, or even things as simple as being tired, ...
The American Association of Pediatrics says children can safely take swim lessons as early as age 1.
Survival Swim starts by teaching your baby how to hold their breath underwater....Teach Swim-Float-SwimHave your learner put their face in the water, hold their breath, and open their eyes. ... Your swimmer should kick while in this position while keeping an eye on their destination.More items...