Three Dayton recreation centers will host the 2017 World’s Largest Swimming Lesson on Thursday, June 22. The annual event is held in 20 countries, with a mission of teaching basic water safety and reminding everyone that learning to swim helps prevent drowning.
The Greater Dayton, Lohrey and Northwest Recreation Centers are official host locations, and admission is free. The lesson begins at 10 a.m.; participants are asked to arrive by 9:45 a.m. All ages are welcome; children (accompanied by guardians) are especially encouraged. Learn more about the event by visiting WLSL.org. 
Since its inception, more than 195,000 children and adults have participated in World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, learning the vital importance of basic swimming skills. Drowning remains the leading cause of unintended, injury-related death for children ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of accidental death for children under 14. Research shows participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88 percent among children ages 1 to 4, yet many children do not receive formal swimming or water safety training.
Dayton’s Department of Recreation and Youth Services offers swimming lessons year ’round. During the summer, the Pay You Back Stroke program reimburses lesson fees. Stop by any recreation center for details or go to daytonohio.gov/backstroke.
Recreation center locations:
Greater Dayton, 2021 W. Third St.
Northwest, 1600 Princeton Dr.
Lohrey, 2366 Glenarm Ave.
