ISR vs. Traditional Swim Lessons: Which is Right for My Child?

Swimming is a vital skill that provides both safety and enjoyment. When deciding on Infant Swimming Resource (ISR) vs. traditional swim lessons, many parents wonder which is right for their child. Each approach has unique features, advantages, and considerations that can help determine which will be the right fit for your child. Here are some facts and tips about ISR and traditional swim lessons to help you make an informed decision.

What is ISR?

Infant Swimming Resource (ISR), focuses on self-rescue swimming skills. Despite its label, ISR isn’t just for infants — children up to 6 years of age can benefit from the methods taught in ISR lessons. Developed in the 1960s, ISR aims to equip children as young as 6 months old with the ability to float on their backs and reach the water’s edge in case they accidentally fall into a body of water. The philosophy behind ISR is rooted in water safety, emphasizing self-rescue techniques that can be lifesaving.

The Structure of ISR Lessons

ISR lessons are highly individualized, with a low student-to-instructor ratio; typically one-on-one. Sessions are brief at around 10 minutes per lesson, but frequent, occurring five days a week over a course of 4-6 weeks. The intensive nature of ISR helps children learn quickly while retaining the skills they acquire. Lessons are customized based on the child’s physical and emotional development, ensuring a personalized experience.

The Benefits of ISR

ISR is beneficial in several different ways. Some of the most notable benefits of ISR include:

• Focus on Survival Skills: ISR is designed to teach children how to survive an accidental fall into the water, which can be crucial for preventing drowning.
• Early Start: Children as young as 6 months old can begin ISR lessons, making it possible to instill water safety skills at an early age.
• Customization: Lessons are tailored to each child’s abilities and progress, allowing them to progress at their own pace.

Considerations for ISR

ISR requires time commitment and patience in order for it to be effective. The daily lessons can be demanding on children and parents, but rewarding in the end. Some children may find ISR lessons overwhelming in the beginning, but instructors can modify training to accommodate insecurities. And, ISR lessons may cost more than traditional swim lessons due to the specialized training of the instructors and one-on-one format.

Traditional Swim Lessons

Traditional swim lessons typically follow a more relaxed, progressive approach to teach swimming skills. These lessons are available for children of all ages, from toddlers to teens, and often take place in group settings. The focus is on building confidence in the water and learning proper swimming techniques.

The Structure of Traditional Swim Lessons

Traditional swim lessons usually last between 30 minutes to an hour, and are typically conducted once or twice a week. Some swim lessons have a “camp” structure, consisting of 20-30 sessions 3-4 days a week for two weeks. Swim lessons are available as group or private sessions, with groups consisting of peers or similar swimming levels. Programs often progress through levels, allowing children to develop at a steady pace.

Benefits of Traditional Swim Lessons

Traditional swim lessons are most beneficial for children that already know how to swim and want to become stronger swimmers, or to learn different types of strokes. Additionally, traditional swim lessons offer:

• Social Interaction: Group lessons provide an opportunity for children to interact with their peers, which can enhance their experience and enjoyment.
• Comprehensive Skills: Traditional swim lessons cover a broad range of skills, including various strokes, diving, and floating.
• Flexibility: With classes available for a wide range of age groups and skill levels, traditional swim lessons are flexible to fit schedules and individual skill level.

Considerations for Traditional Swim Lessons

The once or twice-a-week traditional swim lesson schedule may result in slower acquisition and reduce the retention of newly learned skills. Children in group dynamics may receive less individualized attention, which can also impact their learning speed and confidence. And, some traditional programs may not accept children of a younger age, limiting early exposure to swimming.

ISR with H2O Survival Swim School

H2O Survival Swim School offers ISR lessons to children and infants in the Bryan and College Station, TX area. Our program teaches children how to survive if they were to reach the water alone. Our one-on-one sessions are conducted at a private, heated saltwater pool, or you can request mobile lessons at your own facility. Contact us today to equip your child with life saving, confidence boosting skills in the water.