One of the most common misconceptions I hear from parents is that once their child completes Stage 1 or 2 of swimming lessons, they’re “safe” in the water. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case.
True water confidence and safety come much later in the journey, around Stage 5 or 6. At this point, children are not only strong swimmers, but they’ve also developed the essential survival skills: going underwater comfortably, controlling their breathing, and handling situations such as swimming in cold, murky water while clothed.
The Swimming Journey: From Baby to Confident Swimmer
The Learn to Swim Programme (Stages 1–8) is designed to give children the skills and confidence they need to be safe in and around water. Here’s a realistic timeline:
- Baby Programme (0–3 years old)
If you start lessons with your baby from very early on, this early introduction sets the foundation for water confidence. The baby programme lasts until they are 3 years of age. - Stages 1–3 (Approx. 2.5 years)
This is where children learn the core fundamental skills: floating, gliding, kicking, and breathing techniques. By the end of Stage 3, your child will swim without any floatation aids, such as arm discs.- Children who start with baby lessons, do extra swimming outside of lessons, or take part in other physical activities may progress faster.
- Stages 4–6 (Approx. 2 years)
At this point, children develop their stroke techniques, front crawl, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly as well as stamina and survival skills. This is the stage where they become truly safe and confident swimmers. - Stages 7–8 (Approx. 6 months)
These stages are about refining techniques and building endurance. By now, your child is a strong, capable swimmer who can enjoy the water safely.
In total, the full journey from Stage 1–8 takes around 5 years, or 8 years if you include baby swimming.
What Happens Next?
Children can join a swimming club from around 8 years old if they’d like to swim competitively. But if your child isn’t interested in competing, that’s fine too. Many children continue in Stages 7–8 simply because they love swimming and enjoy the exercise.
Why Parents Shouldn’t Stop Too Early
Stopping after Stages 1 or 2 can give a false sense of security. While your child may be comfortable in the pool, they aren’t yet prepared for real life scenarios, such as falling into open water or swimming in unexpected conditions. True safety comes with consistent progress through the full programme.
The more water time and physical literacy your child has through lessons, family swims, or other sports the quicker and more confidently they’ll progress.
Swimming lessons aren’t just about ticking off early stages. Think of them as a long-term investment in your child’s safety, confidence, and love of swimming. This is a skill they will use for the rest of their lives.