Give a Gift For Life this Christmas!

The past two years have certainly been challenging, but there have also been some pretty interesting learnings and shifting of priorities as a result. Slowing down where possible, simplifying life, questioning if we really need all the extra purchases that usually accompany this time of year, seeing trees and decorations going up early to create a festive feel and make this season feel less rushed all seem to reflect the lessons learnt during 2020 and 2021.
For me, this Christmas needs to be stress free, less about multiple or large presents under the tree, and all about spending time with loved ones, and people that we have been separated from by restrictions. It is very important this year that the gifts I exchange with family are meaningful, not whatever I could grab during my usual last minute dash to Westfields in the weekend before the big day. A gift that will not end up discarded by new year’s day. A gift that will make a difference or bring joy to the recipient. A gift that will promote long lasting confidence, skills or a memorable experience.
As a swim school we are dedicated to helping families discover the joy of swimming but swim industry experts are concerned about an increase in drownings this Summer, as research revealed 54% of children are not learning to swim, with 27% forced out of lessons due to COVID restrictions and 28% unable to find class availability at their local swim school. Other families have not returned to swimming due to the covid lockdwn impact on the family budget, with only 37% of parents planning to enrol their child in official lessons within the next six months, and 29% planning to teach their child themselves.

With over half of Aussie kids currently not attending swimming lessons, denying them the basic skills needed to safely experience all of the aquatic activities on offer in the Australian summertime, what could be a better gift than swimming lessons? Last year drownings in the most at risk under fives increased by 108%. Learning to swim is a major preventative measure parents can take.We are already seeing a surge in requests for gift vouchers from grandparents particularly, but also aunties, uncles and friends of the family, being organised from as far afield as interstate and overseas.

Swimming lessons are a gift that require no storage space, promote health, physical activity and safety, are fun, and teach a skill that will last a lifetime. Karen Bentley, owner of Nepean Swim and Fitness agreed. “Many children missed out on time in the water during lock down, and lots of families are facing increased pressure on their household budget as we continue to recover from the difficulties of this year. However the dangers of the water remain, so gifting swimming lessons for Christmas is both a thoughtful and practical gift for all ages”.
Contact me directly to arrange a gift voucher or suggest to grandparents or family here or even overseas – julie@nepeanswim.com.au. Happy shopping!