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Community Corner

B.R. Ryall YMCA Swim Programs Offer a Mix of Fun, Physical Activity and Safety

As swim season approaches, the B.R. Ryall YMCA of Northwestern DuPage County encourages children and parents 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 Vince Fose, Aquatics Director, B.R. Ryall YMCA. “The B.R. Ryall YMCA is committed to providing as many opportunities as possible for everyone to swim and learn water safety practices.”

As part of National Water Safety Month in May, the B.R. Ryall 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:

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·       Only swim when and where there is a lifeguard on duty; never swim alone.

·       Adults should constantly and actively watch their children.

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·       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 95 years.  The B.R. Ryall 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 including: progressive swim lessons, family swim, competitive swim team, water exercise classes and more. To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate, financial assistance is available to those in need to help cover the costs.

To learn more about B.R. Ryall YMCA’s swim programs, please visit www.brryallymca.org or call 630.858.0100. Summer program registration opens on Monday, May 26 for the community.  

About the Y

The Y is a 501(c) (3) charitable organization.  The B.R. Ryall YMCA of Northwestern DuPage County strengthens the community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.  Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 21 million men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors.  For more information, visit www.brryallymca.org.

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