Your child should never be left alone near water.

An inflatable raft or floaties should never be a substitute for an adult’s constant supervision. Swim classes that encourage your child to be comfortable in the water can be fun at any age.

However, children under the age of three do not understand the concept of holding their breath or swim safety.

Infant swim classes are a great way to have fun, bond with your child, and get them used to the water but these classes do not teach true swim safety and should not be used as a substitute for constant supervision while your child is in the water.