Parents need not be reminded that the danger of exposing young children who cannot swim to a body of water is that they might drown, but they do need to be told of other dangers to which young children are exposed when in water regardless of whether they are learning to swim or for whatever other reason.

There has been ongoing speculation about the medical implications of infant swimming since the presence of a 'swimming reflex' in the human infant was first reported by Myrtle B. McGraw in the 'Journal of Paediatrics,' 1939, 15, 485-490. Fortunately, recommendations of the paediatric fraternity, especially that of the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP), have had a dramatic influence on what should be considered as acceptable and unacceptable practices.

The message in the AAP Policy Statement (Paediatrics, Vol.105, No.4, April 2000, pp 868-870) is that a body of water is not only life-threatening but can be hazardous to a young child's over all health and well being. As such, the AAP does not recommend swimming lessons for very young children. However, the AAP acknowledges the popularity of infant swimming and advised that at best certain precautionary methods should be in effect.

Concern for physical and emotional well-being of the infant has always been at the heart of AQUATOTS Swim Program. Because of this, the AQUATOTS method evolved in such a manner as to greatly reduce the possibility of serious consequences of the medical risks reported by the AAP that involve young children in water. Rules, regulations, and guidelines are posted at all registered AQUATOTS swim schools. Any transgression or omission should be reported to AQUATOTS Central Office immediately. For your reference you can check the AQUATOTS GUIDELINES on this website.