Ensuring every child has the opportunity to be safe around water.
Delaware is surrounded by water. Our children deserve to feel safe in it.
With 381 miles of tidal shoreline, Delaware offers endless opportunities for fun and exploration, but also real risks. Whether it’s a backyard pool, the beach, or a local river, it only takes seconds for a fun moment to turn dangerous.
At the YMCA of Delaware, we believe that learning to swim isn’t just a life skill—it’s a life-saving one. That’s why we offer programs like Water Wise.
What is Water Wise?
Water Wise is the YMCA of Delaware’s free water safety and beginner swim program for children ages 3–17. Delivered in partnership with local schools and community organizations, the program makes it easy for groups to bring life-saving water safety education directly to the children they serve.
Through Water Wise, kids learn foundational swimming skills, build confidence in the water, and gain the knowledge they need to stay safe around pools, lakes, and beaches.
Interested in Water Wise?
Contact your local YMCA of Delaware branch to learn more or get involved.
Support the Water Wise Program
Why Water Wise?
Children Are Curious. Water Is Everywhere.
From splashing in a pool to playing along the shoreline, water is a natural part of childhood. But without the right skills, it can quickly become life-threatening.
Teaching children how to swim and be safe around water is one of the most important life skills a family can provide. It doesn’t just save lives. It builds confidence, independence, and lifelong healthy habits.
Swimming Lessons Save Lives
- Drowning is a Leading Risk
- Drowning is the #1 cause of death for children ages 1–4
- In the U.S., about 10 people drown every day, including children
- Inequities Put Kids at Greater Risk
- Black youth are over 5x more likely to drown in pools than white peers
- Many children in underserved communities never learn to swim
- Access Changes Outcomes
- Lack of access to swim lessons is one of the biggest barriers to safety
- Water safety education can dramatically reduce drowning risk
*Statistics sourced from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, and peer-reviewed drowning prevention research
Making An Impact
Empowering Kids. Saving Lives.
Water Wise is expanding access to life-saving swim skills for children across the First State, building confidence, knowledge, and the ability to stay safe around water. Through partnerships with local schools and community organizations, the program is delivered at YMCA pools across Delaware, helping remove barriers and ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn essential water safety skills.
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14,000+ children served since the program launched
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1,000+ lessons provided each year
Why the YMCA?
As the largest provider of swim lessons in the country, the Y has been teaching children to be safe in and around water for generations. Families trust the YMCA because of our long-standing commitment to safety, quality, and community.
Our approach includes:
- A progressive skill-building curriculum
- Emphasis on personal safety and awareness
- Inclusive programming for all abilities and backgrounds
- A welcoming, supportive environment where kids can grow
Get Involved
Interested in Water Wise?
Water Wise is offered through local YMCA branches in partnership with community organizations.
👉 Contact your local YMCA of Delaware branch to learn more or get involved.