Drowning is a year-round concern. Did you know it can take 20-30 swim lessons for a five-year-old to learn to swim well enough to cross a small pool? Every child is different and learns at his/her own pace, so timing varies, but getting your child started now so he/she can be in better shape for the busier swimming months is a smart plan.

Accidental drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages one to four years old, and the second leading cause of death in children ages five to 15 years old.

To find out how your child swims and handles himself in and around water, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine is offering several free water safety and swim evaluations. These evaluations, for kids of all ages, will help parents identify their child’s comfort level in the water. Attending families will also receive a $5 coupon for a discount on swim lesson registration for the YMCA of Greater Brandywine’s late fall session which runs from the week of 10/28 to 12/15.

Brandywine YMCA, 295 Hurley Road, Coatesville:

• Sunday, October 27 - 1:00-2:30 PM
   
• Wednesday, October 30 – 5:30-7:00 PM

Jennersville YMCA, 880 W. Baltimore Pike, West Grove:

• Wednesday, October 23 – 5:00-7:00 PM

Kennett Area YMCA, 101 Race Street, Kennett Square:

• Tuesday, October 22 – 5:00-7:00 PM
   
• Thursday, October 24 – 5:00-7:00 PM

Lionville Community YMCA, 100 Devon Drive, Exton:

• Wednesday, October 23 – 6:00-7:00 PM.

Upper Main Line YMCA, 1416 Berwyn-Paoli Road, Berwyn:

• Saturday, October 26 – 10:00 AM-12:00 PM

West Chester Area YMCA, 605 Airport Road, West Chester:

• Tuesday, October 22 – 5:30-8:00 PM
   
• Saturday, October 26 – 9:00-11:00 AM

The YMCA’s certified swim instructors will assess your child’s swim skills and determine the next skills he or she needs to master. Instructors are also able to tell you the appropriate swim lesson level for your child if you are interested in YMCA swim lessons during the fall and winter.

Registration for the evaluations is requested, but not required. A YMCA membership is not required, but to attend, all guests over the age of 18 need to show a valid photo ID. Follow this link for more information or to register.