Article: Although your child may not become a proficient swimmer until he's a few years old, you can start bringing him in the pool at a few months. From 6 to 12 months is usually considered a good time to introduce your child to the water because at this age children will absorb the skill faster. As long as you're gentle with your child and introduce him to the water gradually, you can begin as early as 6 months. Make sure your child, whatever his age, is healthy enough to begin swimming. If your child has any health conditions you should consult your doctor before beginning swimming lessons. If you have a young child just learning how to swim, you should be familiar with basic first aid. Knowing CPR can save your child's life. If your child is still in diapers, use a waterproof swim diaper to prevent any leaks and protect the health of other swimmers. Blow-up devices like water wings are popular, but not recommended by pediatricians. If these spring a leak while your child is swimming, he can sink. These devices can also slip off. Instead, use a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vest. These should be available at most sporting goods and pool equipment stores. When buying a life vest, look for the U.S. Coast Guard-approved label. For small children, the vest should have straps that hook under the legs to keep it from slipping over the child's head. If you have a pool, make sure your child can't get to it. Learning how to swim may make your child overconfident of his abilities and he might try to swim when you're not looking. Avoid accidents by completely blocking access to the pool when it's not in use.

What is a summary?
Learn when to begin. Assess your child's health. Learn about child CPR. Dress your child in a special swim diaper. Avoid air-filled flotation devices. Secure all gates, locks, and ladders to your pool.