Albuquerque Dives into the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson
The Parks & Recreation Department (PRD) will participate in the “World’s Largest Swimming Lesson” on June 20 and offer 400 free swim lessons to the public. This worldwide event builds awareness about the fundamental importance of teaching children how to swim and its role in drowning prevention.
Studies show that participation in formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning among children age 1-4 by up to 88 percent. Unfortunately, more than half of Americans (56%) either can’t swim or don’t have basic swimming skills.
“Swim lessons save lives,” said PRD Director Dave Simon. “We want every one of the 400 spots filled!”
From 9 a.m. until noon on Thursday, June 20, at the West Mesa Aquatic Center, instructors will offer free 30-minute swim lessons for toddlers through adults. Lessons are first-come, first-serve; registration for the free lessons is now open at play.cabq.gov. Locker 505 will partner with PRD to give away free swimsuits to families that need them.
“Summer is heating up fast and families across the city, including my own, are looking to cool off in the water,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Knowing how to swim keeps the fun factor high while helping our kids stay safe.”
As part of the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, PRD will offer the following swim classes:
- Introduction to floating: Ages 3-5
- Floating and gliding: Ages 6-14
- Introduction to Freestyle: Ages 6-14
- Introduction to Swimming for Adults: 15+
2024 will mark the 15th year of the World’s Largest Swim Lesson, which takes place at all types of aquatic facilities from huge waterparks to public pools and swim schools. Since its inception, more than 383,000 children and adults in 53 countries on six continents have participated in WLSL lessons. The City is participating for the first time this year as part of PRD’s increased efforts to promote swim lessons and drowning prevention.
Also, registration for July classes in the regular PRD Learn to Swim Program is currently open on play.cabq.gov. PRD has created an online tool to assist parents decide what swim class is best for their children. The tool (in the form of a simple quiz) is available in English and Spanish on the City website.