The nation's largest pediatricians group is relaxing its stance against swimming lessons for children younger than 4.
A few small studies now suggest toddlers may be less likely to drown if they've had swim lessons.
That's why the American Academy of Pediatrics says it's fine to enroll children as young as 1 in classes.
The doctors aren't recommending lessons for every young child. Some parents may feel their little ones aren't ready for the water and that's OK.
In the past, the group said swim classes might give toddlers and parents a false sense of security.
The updated policy was announced Monday.
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.
A few small studies now suggest toddlers may be less likely to drown if they've had swim lessons.
That's why the American Academy of Pediatrics says it's fine to enroll children as young as 1 in classes.
The doctors aren't recommending lessons for every young child. Some parents may feel their little ones aren't ready for the water and that's OK.
In the past, the group said swim classes might give toddlers and parents a false sense of security.
The updated policy was announced Monday.
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.
