By JENNA RHUDE
Moapa Valley Progress
Cuteness overload was experienced at the Overton Swimming Pool last week during the Water Introduction swim time class sponsored by Parks and Rec Aquatics programs. Equipped with swim diapers and sunscreen, parents, grandparents and other significant adult supervisors held their wiggly little ones as they splashed in the sun. Water Introduction is an easy-going first step for the youngest crowd to be introduced to swimming.
This small class is for youngsters from 6 months to 5 years old. The course is a 3 week session at 30 minutes long per session.
When first approaching, it appears to be a ‘mommy and me’ class. However, upon further exploration, there was a dad and a grandma participating in the class with their little ones as well.
While interviewing one of the parents he explained that the class is more for the parent than the child. On the first day of the class the instruction was aimed at helping parents learn how to teach their kids to be more comfortable and confident in the water, he said.
The parents are taught how to help their kids blow bubbles, kick, front and back float, go after toys and other useful tips. Water safety and supervision is also being taught.
“My son has shown improvement in just a few classes,” said parent Chance Munford.
During the time that the Water Introduction class takes place, a Water Independence class is also happening in the pool. This is for the slightly older, more confident child. Many of the parents have children enrolled in both classes. Some said that it was convenient to have their children enrolled at the same time.
The participating parents said they hoped that learning different beginning swimming techniques will allow them to help their child gain confidence in the water. Water safety is a huge concern for most parents. Yes, even in the desert.
Safe Kids Clark County has some great tips for water safety. It can be found at www.safekidsclarkcounty.org/safety-info/drowning-prevention-tips-the-abc-ds/
“Drowning is a serious issue in Clark County because of the access to pools at all times of the year,” the website states. “The typical drowning victim is age 4 and younger and doesn’t make any noise when slipping into the pool to go after a toy or other object. To keep your child safe near water, remember the ABC & D’s of drowning prevention: Adult Supervision, Barriers, Classes, and Devices.”
One piece of good advice when signing up for a Parks and Recreation activity was to always check the brochure for details. One mom said that she was surprised to bring her two year old to the class and discover that she was an active participant as well. But she said that she has come to enjoy this one-on one time with her daughter.
County officials said that all the detailed descriptions are in the brochure portion of the website and not all the same information is readily available on the registration page.
This class is ongoing and another section of the course is also taught at the Logandale pool. Please check with the Parks and Recreation office to find out when to register for the next session.
