Safe Kids Missoula Takes Part in World’s Largest Swim Lesson

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - Summer is here and kids want to play in the water, which could mean a pool, lake, or river.

That’s why Safe Kids Missoula, The Community Health Alliance, and Missoula Parks and Recreation are all taking part in the ‘World’s Largest Swim Lesson’ at Splash Montana on Thursday, June 20.

The World's Largest Swim Lesson Will be on June 20 at Splash Montana

I spoke with Brenda Plascencia, Safe Kids Missoula Coordinator, about this one-day worldwide event.

“It's part of the world's largest swimming lesson, and, as the name suggests, it's worldwide,” began Plascencia. “It's an international water safety event, and this year, Missoula Parks and Recreation is hosting it at Splash Montana. It will be all around the world on the same day, June 20. We're really excited that Missoula gets to be a part of it, and we hope families take advantage of this opportunity.”

The event will begin at 10:00 a.m. on June 20. Plascencia provided more details.

“There will be several water safety stations where the Aquatics Team at Missoula Parks and Recreation will be teaching basic swimming skills to students of all ages,” she said. “It’s only going to be for a short amount of time, but they’ll go over a lot of important water safety topics with families and with students.”

After the 45 Minute Lesson Kids Can Stay and Swim till 3:00 p.m.

The lesson itself will be from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Plascencia said both organizations are collaborating on the special one-time-only event.

“Safe Kids Missoula is a coalition that is comprised of safety experts throughout our community,” she said. “Missoula Parks and Recreation is involved with Safe Kids Missoula through their aquatics program, and we like to partner on lots of water safety topics. In addition, we collaborate on life jacket loaner programs along with the Missoula Family YMCA and other water safety partners.”

Plascencia emphasized the importance of teaching children how to swim at an early age.

“Water safety is such an important topic, especially in our community, where we have rivers, lakes, and other open water areas, where learning how to swim is such an essential skill here in Montana,” she said. “Safe Kids Missoula is spreading awareness about water safety and this event will be fantastic fun for everyone.”

READ MORE: How to Grill Summertime Steaks and Burgers Safely in Montana

Find the Pricing Schedule for Splash Montana Linked Below

Following the 45-minute worldwide swim lesson, participants can stay at Splash Montana for their recreational swim session from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

According to the Safe Kids Montana press release: “Missoula Parks and Recreation offers ‘Share the fun’ grants for families who need financial assistance for swim lessons at Splash Montana or at Currents Aquatics Center.

Those participating will have to pay the regular Splash Montana admission fee plus $1 dollar for the special swim lesson."

Find the prices for Splash Montana here.