At What Age Should Your Child Start Swimming Lessons? A Guide for Canadian Parents.

For Canadian parents of young children, water safety is a top priority—especially in a country with thousands of lakes, backyard pools, and community pools.

So when is the right time to introduce your child to swimming lessons?

According to the Canadian Paediatric Society and organizations like the Red Cross and Lifesaving Society, children can start swimming lessons as early as 12 months old. These early classes are called “parent-and-tot” lessons. They focus on water familiarity, and building positive experiences in the water with a parent/guardian. Lessons typically involve gentle play and supervised movement, all while strengthening the parent-child bond.

At age 3, swimmers begin lessons without parents in the pool. These lessons are called "Preschool" level lessons, and they focus on stroke development and independent water skills. At this stage, toddlers have better motor control, attention spans, and the ability to follow instructions—meaning lessons are productive and enjoyable even without parents with them in the pool.

While starting early can build confidence and prevent fear of water, remember that early lessons are not a substitute for constant supervision. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly, even in shallow water.

No matter when you start, the goal is to help your child feel safe, happy, and competent around water. Look for certified instructors, child-focused programs, and warm-water pools for the most positive experience.

By introducing swimming early and reinforcing water safety habits, you’re giving your child a valuable life skill that lasts a lifetime.

To book parent & tot, or preschool lessons at 905 Swimming, contact us.