The American Academy of Pediatrics says toddlers can benefit from swimming classes. New data shows that early swim training can lower drowning rates in children under the age of 4.

For years, some experts didn't believe lessons for children ages 1-3 were safe, but that is no longer the case.

Robbie Koppelman is a lifeguard in Merrill. He believes swim safety is especially important here in Wisconsin. He says, "I think the best reason is we live in the North Woods where there is abundant water. So if kids are introduced to water sooner, at a younger age, they can get over their fears and they can learn how to swim."

Classes for infants younger than 12 months old are not recommended. Even if your child can swim, parents should still supervise near water.