Children should learn to swim once a week for at least three years — expert
Expert Zane Gemze states that children need at least three years of weekly swimming lessons to become confident swimmers, and instruction should be by professional coaches, not parents.
To learn swimming confidently, children need to dedicate at least three years with weekly lessons. This was stated on Latvian Radio by Zane Gemze, founder of the society "Peldēt droši" (Swim Safe).
She emphasizes that children should be taught by trainers or sports instructors, not by parents. Many parents themselves do not fully understand what it means to be able to swim and be safe in the water. Therefore, professional guidance is essential.
Gemze noted that regular lessons over a long period are the only way to achieve stable swimming skills. This recommendation is particularly important given Latvia's many lakes and coastline, where children spend time during summer.
