As swimming schools pause for the summer holidays, experts are urging parents to maintain their children’s swimming practice to reduce the risk of drowning during Australia’s peak season for water-related fatalities. Dr Amy Peden, a research fellow at UNSW Sydney, emphasised the importance of informal swimming activities and water safety education during this high-risk period.
Summer marks the highest number of drowning incidents in Australia, with 134 lives lost during the warmer months last year. Children are particularly vulnerable, with their risk of drowning doubling during school holidays compared to term time. Increased exposure to unfamiliar water environments and a surge in water-related activities contribute to these statistics.
Active involvement
Dr Peden highlighted the critical role of adult supervision, urging parents to stay within arm’s reach of children under five or older children who are weak swimmers. Active supervision, free from distractions such as mobile phones, is essential.
“Adults need to actively supervise young children around water. This means being within arms’ reach in the water with children under five and older if your children are non or weak swimmers,” noted Dr Peden. “Supervision can relax as children grow and improve their swimming. But the safest place for parents is in the water having fun with the kids.”
Building swimming skills
Research underscores the benefits of frequent water exposure for children’s swimming abilities. A 2016 study co-authored by Dr Peden revealed that children who swim at least once a fortnight show higher swimming skill levels, even if their time in the water is informal. Having access to a home pool further boosts skills due to increased opportunities for practice.
To help parents gauge their children’s progress, the National Swimming and Water Safety Framework outlines age-specific milestones. By age six, for instance, children should be able to float, recover to a standing position, and swim at least five metres.
Holistic water safety education
In addition to physical skills, water safety conversations are vital. Setting rules such as “no going near the water without an adult” or explaining why it’s important to stay between the flags at patrolled beaches can reinforce safety practices.
Dr Peden also advises parents to expose children to various water environments. While pools offer controlled conditions and lifeguard supervision, rivers, with their currents and colder water, present different challenges. Rivers have been the leading location for drownings in Australia for two decades.
Lifelong benefits of water play
Dr Peden highlighted that summer is a perfect time for families to enjoy water activities together. Whether through “Christmas swims” or playful interactions, these experiences enhance children’s swimming confidence and preparedness.
With Term 1 swimming lessons on the horizon, consistent practice this summer can make a measurable difference. Parents are encouraged to embrace this opportunity, keeping their children safe while fostering essential life skills.