Helping Every Child Stay Safe Around Water

In Louisiana, drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children. Our state ranks third in the nation for drowning deaths among kids under 18. Through Swim for Life, Ochsner LSU Health is working with the YMCA of Northwest Louisiana to change that, one second grader at a time.

How the Program Works

1. Schools Arrive at the Y

Each week school is in session, Caddo Parish buses one school of second graders to the YMCA, Monday through Thursday.

2. Students Split Into Small Groups

Up to 100 children arrive each week and divide into groups of about 50, keeping instruction safe and manageable.

3. Children Learn In and Out of the Water

Each group spends 30 minutes learning swim and safety skills in the water, plus 30 minutes learning water safety lessons on dry land.

4. Kids Take Home Lifesaving Skills

Children leave with the confidence and knowledge to stay safer around water for the rest of their lives.