SUMMER is on its way so it’s time to think about teaching children to be water-safe by the beach or in the pool.
Kingston’s leisure centres offer a range of Learn to Swim programs including weekly classes, school holiday intensive or private lessons in well-heated indoor pools.
“It’s an Aussie summer tradition to head to the beach for the holidays, so it’s incredibly important that children have the swimming skills and water safety knowledge to stay safe,” Kingston mayor Cr David Eden said.
“It can be tempting to skip swimming lessons during the winter months, but the practice kids get now can ensure they are stronger swimmers this summer.”
The state government last week announced $400,000 in funding for the 2018 VICSWIMZ Summer Kidz Program.
The program provides low-cost swimming lessons in an affordable five-day program during the January school holidays.
VICSWIMZ lessons are available at Parkdale’s Don Tatnell Leisure Centre.
“Every child deserves to learn how to swim – and this summer program being run in Parkdale is a great place to start,” Mordialloc Labor MP Tim Richardson said.
“VICSWIM is all about saving young lives. Record enrolments, year after year, mean more kids than ever are learning this vital life skill.
“These classes fill up fast. I encourage families to get in quick and sign up their children at their nearest participating pool and open water venue.”
Learn to Swim classes are also run at Waves Leisure Centre in Highett.
See kingston.vic.gov.au/leisurecentres or call Kingston Council on 1300 653 356 for more information about Learn to Swim classes.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 30 August 2017