Some studies have shown not only is swimming great exercise and an essential safety and lifesaving skill, swimming can also positively impact a child cognitively, emotionally, and socially.
But, despite the positives, Water Safety New Zealand says 130,000 children have never had a swimming lesson.
Dr Robyn Jorgensen is an Emeritus Professor in Education at the University of Canberra.
She has led a large, international study on the benefits of structured swimming lessons for under-5s.
She says it clearly showed that children who have regular structured swimming lessons meet developmental milestones early - no matter what their socio-economic background.
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