Swim lessons for tots teach water safety, skills

Every summer, the Orchard swimming pool opens with hopes of bringing together people of all ages for great swimming and a safe place full of entertainment.

Pool personnel try to get everyone involved, including babies.

Moms and tots is a program that was created several years ago by former pool managers.

The goal is to offer an opportunity for small children, ages newborn to four, who are too young to take swimming lessons to become more comfortable with the water.

Children are taught several skills like blowing bubbles, kicking legs, front crawl arms and floats.

Not only does this program allow children to become more comfortable with the water, but it is also a way for mothers to get involved with people from different communities, including Clearwater and Ewing.

For a few years, the program slipped into the deep end, until Mackenzie McClellan brought it back into existence.

Angela Tagel of Orchard, participated with her sons, Lewis, age four, and three-year-old Levi.

"It's nice to have (it) for your children who aren't old enough to do private lessons. I hope that they learn to be more comfortable in the water. I think it's a little easier for them to learn at that age when their mom is there too," said Tagel.

NIcole Strope also participated with her one and one-half-year-old son, Coy.

"My son has been hesitant of water, so I was hoping this would be an opportunity to get him used to being in and having fun in the water," she said.

Getting involved, having your child become a better swimmer, and supporting the community are a few reasons to attend moms and tots.

Moms and tots dates differ each year, to fit in the lifeguard-instructor's schedule.

This year, the first group session took place July 22 to 24. The second session ran July 29 to 31.

Approximately 16 participants attended the first session.