However, it can be dangerous if children don’t know how to swim safely.

Fortunately the NSW Office of Sport and Recreation is running swimming lessons at the Harden Swimming Pool from January 8 to January 15.

Enrolements for the Swim and Survive program are still open for children aged from 18 months to 12 years.

“The Office of Sport delivers Royal Life Saving Society’s national Swim and Survive program to infants, preschoolers and primary school-age children, with most classes held over nine consecutive weekdays,” Office of Sport chief executive Mat Miller said.

“Swimming is an important life skill and a fun form of exercise,” Mr Miller said.

“Kids and parents will notice the improvements in their child’s swimming and confidence that comes from the extra practice of a daily program.”

The lessons can cover beginners up to swimmers wanting to improve their technique.

The cost for preschool children is $51 and $72 for school-aged children – the program does not cover entry into the pool.

There is a discount for school-aged siblings, with the cost of the program falling to $51 per sibling.

Parents can enroll their children in Harden’s Swim and Survive lessons by calling 13 13 02 or visiting the website sportandrecreation.nsw.gov.au/events/swim-and-survive.