Parents often wonder whether it’s safe or beneficial for kids to swim in winter. With cold temperatures, busy holiday schedules, and winter sports taking priority, many families consider taking a seasonal break from the pool. But the truth may surprise you: winter swimming is not only safe, it’s one of the best things you can do to support your child’s development, immune system, and water safety skills. Contrary to popular belief, the Mayo Clinic cites that wet hair is and cold temperatures are not a cause of colds or sicknesses.
At Bear Paddle, winter is one of our most important swim seasons. Here’s why maintaining swimming during winter is so valuable for infants, toddlers, and school-age swimmers.
Is It Safe for Kids to Swim in Winter?
Yes — as long as your child is swimming in a warm, indoor, well-maintained swim facility. Bear Paddle’s pools are heated to a warm 90–92°F, which helps children:
- Stay relaxed
- Feel comfortable
- Learn faster
- Avoid the chills associated with cold water
Warm-water pools prevent the discomfort that typically discourages winter swimming and keeps children comfortable and focused while they learn life-saving skills.
The Benefits of Swimming in Winter
1. Consistent skill development
Swimming is a muscle memory skill. Taking a long winter break often causes children to lose:
- Breath control
- Floating skills
- Confidence in deeper water
- Kicking technique
- Wall-return and safety skills
Continuing to swim in winter allows children to maintain progress — and often accelerate it due to smaller class sizes and fewer seasonal distractions.
2. Strengthening safety skills year-round
Drowning risks do not disappear in winter. Bathtubs, indoor pools, and vacation travel still create water exposure.
Winter swimming ensures your child continues practicing:
- Floating
- Breath control
- Turning back to the wall
- Safe entry and exit
- Listening to instructor cues
These habits become automatic with continuous lessons.
3. Boosting immunity and overall health
Many parents mistakenly believe swimming during colder months increases illness. In reality:
- Warm pools do not lower immune function
- Exercise improves immunity
- Regular activity boosts sleep quality
- Swimming helps regulate energy levels
Most winter illnesses come from indoor air and close contact, not from swimming lessons.
In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults in the United States typically have 2–3 colds per year. Viruses cause colds, and the only way to develop a cold is to come into contact with a cold-causing virus.
There is no research to support a direct correlation between the common cold and having wet hair. Only exposure to a cold-causing virus can cause a person to develop a cold.
4. Excellent alternative to winter sports
Winter sports can be demanding, seasonal, or weather-dependent. Swimming provides a consistent, low-impact activity that:
- Builds cardiovascular strength
- Enhances flexibility
- Strengthens respiratory muscles
- Supports emotional well-being
Unlike contact sports, swimming is gentle on growing joints and can serve as cross-training and building cardiovascular endurance for your child’s primary sport.
5. Mental and emotional benefits
Children who swim in winter show improvements in:
- Confidence
- Mood
- Stress regulation
- Focus and attention
- Social interaction
Staying active during colder months helps reduce winter blues for parents and children alike.
Traveling During Winter? Keep Water Safety in Mind
Families often travel to warmer climates during winter. Hotels, beaches, and pools present new water hazards. The best preparation is keeping children in lessons consistently so their skills stay sharp for vacation swimming.
Why Bear Paddle Is Ideal for Winter Swimming
At Bear Paddle, winter swimmers benefit from:
- Warm, 90-degree water
- Clean, climate-controlled facilities
- Small class sizes
- Flexible scheduling
- Engaging, consistent curriculum
Your child stays safe, warm, and confident — all year long.
Don’t Break the Routine — Keep Swimming Strong
Swimming success is built through repetition and consistent practice. Winter is the perfect opportunity for children to improve water safety, build strength, and stay active when outdoor play is limited.
Keeping your child enrolled in lessons during winter ensures they maintain and even accelerate their swimming progress.
Schedule your child for a complimentary swim lesson to get your child swimming this winter.