Oak Brook Park District joins in 17th annual ‘World’s Largest Swimming Lesson’ on June 25
On Thursday, June 25, the Oak Brook Park District will join aquatic facilities around the world in hosting the 17th annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the life-saving importance of learning to swim and water safety education.
The free event will take place from 11 to 11:30 a.m. at Swim Central, with advanced registration required.
The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson was created by the World Waterpark Association in 2010 to bring communities together around a simple but powerful message: Swimming Lessons Save Lives.
The event is held simultaneously at aquatic facilities across six continents and serves as a platform to promote drowning prevention and water competency for children and families.
According to national water safety organizations, drowning remains the leading cause of death for children, ages 1 to 4, and the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children, ages 5 to 14. Research has shown that participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by as much as 88% among young children.
“Water safety is one of the most important life skills a child can learn,” said Michelle Konrad, aquatic program manager at the Oak Brook Park District. “By participating in the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, we hope to provide children with skills that build confidence in the water and help keep our community safe throughout the summer and beyond.”
During the 30-minute lesson, participants will learn foundational swimming and water safety skills from certified instructors in a fun and supportive environment. The event is open to children ages 3-12. It is designed for all skill levels.
The Oak Brook Park District encourages families to take advantage of this free opportunity to learn essential water safety skills while joining a worldwide movement focused on drowning prevention.
The “World’s Largest Swimming Lesson” will be 11 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, June 25, at Swim Central, 1450 Forest Gate Road, Oak Brook. Free, but registration required. For more information and registration, visit obparks.org.