Central Bucks Family YMCA Swim Programs Offer a Mix of Fun, Physical Activity and Safety

As swim season approaches, Central Bucks Family YMCA encourages children and parents in the area to explore the many benefits of swimming, while also keeping safety top of mind. In the Y’s swim programs, participants can enjoy water sports, enhance or learn new techniques, meet new friends and develop confidence, while also learning safety skills that can save lives. 

“Swimming is a fun and enjoyable activity for children and adults alike, and it’s an easy way to stay physically active and improve strength, flexibility and stamina,” said Ashley Coticchio, the Associate Director of Aquatics at the Y. “We’re committed to providing as many opportunities as possible for everyone to swim and learn water safety practices, regardless of age or ability.”

 As part of National Water Safety Month in May, Central Bucks Family YMCA encourages parents to take an active role in their child’s safety. Following are safety tips to practice when in and around the water:

• Only swim when and where there is a lifeguard on duty; never swim alone.
• Adults should constantly and actively watch their children, even if they are experienced swimmers.
• Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. 
• Parents or guardians of young children should be within an arm’s reach.
• Children and adults should not engage in breath holding activities.

In addition to learning lifesaving water safety skills, children can increase their physical activity by swimming. Swimming also motivates children to strive for self-improvement, teaches goal orientation, and cultivates a positive mental attitude and high self-esteem. It also teaches life lessons of sport and sportsmanship, so that children can learn how to work well with teammates and coaches and how to deal with winning and losing.

 As a leading nonprofit committed to youth development, the Y has been a leader in providing swim lessons and water safety for more than 100 years.  Central Bucks Family YMCA continues to help youth and adults experience the joy and benefits of swimming, so they can be healthy, confident and secure in the water. There are a variety of programs to choose from, including preschool and school age group and private swim lessons, swim team, lifeguard training, and adult swim programs.  

To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate, financial assistance is available to those in need to help cover the costs.

Central Bucks Family YMCA is a charitable non-profit organization whose purpose is to improve the quality of community life. The Y strengthens the spirit, mind and body of its members. We build character by promoting the values of caring, respect, honesty and responsibility.