As the start of a new academic term looms in the not-so-distant future, parents continue to send their children to summer programmes to keep boredom at bay.{{more}}

On Friday, August 12, the Amateur Swimming Association concluded its two-week programme teaching children to swim, and helping those who already can, to improve their skills.

Children were also taught the various swimming styles and how to use the pool safely.

Swimming instructor Shirman Jacobs said that the 36-strong group was divided into beginners and intermediates, and taught by himself and two other instructors (Neisha Alexander and Ricky-Dene Alexander) on how to improve their techniques.

“St. Vincent and the Grenadines is surrounded by water, and it’s important that we all know and learn how to swim properly,” asserted Jacobs.

In its first year of operation, the summer programme, which was held at Grenadine House (the programme’s sponsor), will become an annual event.

Jacobs said that the programme helps to keep children occupied over summer, and has several benefits.

“It helps in their overall development,” he explained.

“Physical activity is very important. Rather than sitting [at] home eating and putting on weight, it is good that they can come to this for two weeks and keep fit!”

Jacobs said that he also believes that learning to swim can help children with their self-confidence and make them stronger mentally.

He also pointed out that he and the other instructors were keeping an eye out for any budding talent; and they were happy to see promise in some of this year’s participants.

“Hopefully, we will be working along with them as the years progress,” he added.

Jacobs explained that it is important to nurture a child’s swimming talent from as early as possible.

The programme catered to children aged 4 to 16 years old, and started on Tuesday, August 2.