What does the new NIH study about swim lessons say?
In the past, the American Association of Pediatricians has recommended that children should not start swim lessons until age four. A new study from the National Institutes of Health says that “swimming lessons could appropriately be considered for inclusion as part of a complete prevention program, along with fencing for pools, appropriate adult supervision, and training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation for parents and caregivers.” Dr. Duane Alexander. And according to Dr. Ruth Brenner, “From our calculations, we are confident that swimming lessons do not increase drowning risk in this age group and likely have a protective effect. “This study’s findings are definitely a step in the right direction,” said SWIMkids USA General Manager Bryan Crane. The complete article is at http://www.nih.gov/news/health/mar2009/nichd-02a.htm.
