YMCA’S Safety Around Water Program Teaches Essential Skills to Children
EVERETT, Wash., May 13, 2021 – Teaching children how to be safe around water is not a luxury; it is a necessity. The YMCA of Snohomish County is reintroducing its Safety Around Water program at all six of its branches. This 8-day program teaches children essential water safety skills that will reduce the risk of drowning and give them confidence in and around water.
“Equipping children with water safety skills is critical because we are surrounded by water in the Pacific Northwest,” Patsy Cudaback, Chief Operating Officer. “Teaching safe swimming to all, especially youth, is a top priority of the YMCA.”
Safety Around Water will be held from June 21 – July 1, 2021 at all YMCA of Snohomish County branches. Classes run Monday – Thursday each week for a total of eight lessons. Safety Around Water is open to the community and costs $40 for 8 lessons. The program is free for children on free and reduced lunch and children who are on or qualify for YMCA financial assistance. Safety Around Water is open to all kids ages 3-12.
“Our goal is to get as many kids comfortable in and around water, despite their skill levels,” said Cudaback. “Safety Around Water builds confidence in kids through fun, engaging lessons.”
Certified instructors use fun games and activities to teach exercises that help children adjust to being in the water, skill sets children can use if they unexpectedly find themselves in the water, and safety specific topics such as pool rules and boating safety. Each lesson includes a handout for parents and caregivers with additional water safety tips.
To learn more about the YMCA’s Aquatics program and to register for Safety Around Water, please visit ymca-snoco.org or stop by a local YMCA branch. The YMCA also offers year-round traditional swim lessons. The next session begins July 5, 2021.