It is important for all children to learn to be safe in, on and around the water. Swim lessons can begin a lifelong love of the water. Learning to swim is an important step for a child. Be sure that your child is ready, by speaking with both your pediatrician and swim school professional about the appropriate age to start lessons.  A good swimming program will teach children love for the water, in the context of important safety rules. It’s also important to emphasize that parents should supervise a child who has learned to swim closely, even though they may appear independent in the water. Look for a facility that is clean, well-staffed, and emphasizes other layers of protection (such as supervision) as part of a complete water safety plan. No swimming instructor should ever make parents feels that their children are “drown-proof."