Best Swimming Exercises to Boost Your Child's Fitness

June 26, 2024

Swimming is a fantastic way for kids to stay active and healthy. It is not just a fun activity, but also an excellent form of exercise that involves their whole body. Unlike other activities, swimming works on building strength, improving coordination, and enhancing cardiovascular health simultaneously. At our camp, we believe that swimming offers incredible benefits that go beyond the physical. It helps develop children's confidence and social skills as they engage in group activities in the pool.

Moreover, swimming is especially beneficial for children because it is a low-impact exercise. This means there is less stress on their growing bones and joints. Kids can enjoy hours of swimming without the risk of common injuries that might occur with land-based sports. It's a great way for them to burn energy, stay cool in the summer, and have a blast with their friends.

By participating in swimming activities, children learn valuable life skills. They get the hang of working as a team, pushing their limits, and setting personal goals. Swimming also improves their focus and discipline, which can be beneficial in other areas of life, including school. In the following sections, we will delve into specific swim drills, fun water games, and essential post-swimming exercises to round out their aquatic experience.

Why Swimming Is the Perfect Exercise for Kids

Swimming is one of the best exercises for kids because it works out the whole body. When children swim, they use their arms, legs, core, and back muscles all at once. This helps to build strength and improve overall physical fitness. The water provides resistance, which is gentler on the joints compared to other activities like running or jumping. This makes swimming an excellent low-impact exercise that is safe and fun for kids of all ages.

In addition to physical benefits, swimming also improves cardiovascular health. Because it requires continuous movement, swimming keeps the heart rate up and strengthens the heart muscles. This can help kids develop better stamina and stay active for longer periods. Moreover, swimming helps improve lung capacity because it involves rhythmic breathing techniques. As kids practice these techniques, they learn to control their breathing, which can benefit them in other sports and activities too.

Top Swim Drills to Enhance Strength and Endurance

To help kids become stronger and build endurance, we use a variety of swim drills that are both challenging and fun. One effective drill is the “kickboard drill.” Kids hold onto a kickboard and focus solely on their kicking. This drill helps in strengthening leg muscles and improving kick technique. By practicing this drill regularly, children can swim faster and more efficiently.

Another great drill is the “catch-up freestyle.” In this drill, one arm waits for the other to "catch up" before taking the next stroke. This helps improve coordination and timing between arm movements. It also allows kids to focus on their hand placement and overall body position in the water. We also practice “underwater dolphin kicks,” where kids mimic the motion of a dolphin swimming underwater. This drill works the core muscles and enhances underwater speed, making it an essential drill for developing young swimmers.

By practicing these drills, kids can gradually build the strength and endurance they need to become better swimmers. They will not only improve their swimming skills but also gain confidence and enjoy their time in the water even more.

Fun Water Games to Keep Kids Active and Engaged

Keeping kids active and engaged during swim camp is important for their overall experience. We have several fun water games that also help improve their swimming skills. One popular game is "Sharks and Minnows." In this game, one child is the "shark" and stands in the middle of the pool, while the others are "minnows" who try to swim from one side to the other without being tagged. This game encourages quick swimming, agility, and sharpens their reflexes.

Another favorite is "Treasure Hunt." We scatter various pool-safe toys or items at the bottom of the shallow end, and kids dive to bring them back to the surface. This game not only builds confidence in underwater swimming but also improves their breath control and diving skills. "Marco Polo" is another classic game where one child, who is "it," closes their eyes and calls out "Marco," while others respond with "Polo." The "it" person then tries to tag the other players by following their voices, which enhances their listening skills and swimming accuracy.

Stretching and Cool Down Exercises After Swimming

After a vigorous swimming session, it's important for kids to stretch and cool down to prevent muscle soreness and improve flexibility. We guide them through simple stretches that target major swimming muscles. One effective stretch is the "shoulder stretch." Standing tall, kids gently pull one arm across their body and hold it with the other arm. This helps to loosen the shoulders and upper back muscles used during swimming.

Another useful stretch is the "quad stretch." Kids stand on one leg while pulling their other foot towards their back, stretching the front of the thigh. This stretch helps to relax the leg muscles worked hard during kicking. Additionally, we do the "child's pose" from yoga. Kneeling down, kids extend their arms forward and rest their forehead on the ground, which stretches the back and promotes relaxation.

Cooling down with slow, relaxed movements in the pool also helps the body transition from exercise mode to rest. This could include gentle laps or simply floating. Practicing these cool-down exercises ensures our young swimmers recover well and are ready for their next swim session.

Final Thoughts

Swimming provides numerous benefits for kids, making it an ideal activity at Marlboro Montessori Academy - Summer Camp. Through engaging swim drills and fun water games, kids not only enhance their strength and endurance but also enjoy their time and build lasting memories. Cooling down with proper stretching ensures they stay healthy and ready for more exciting activities.

If you're looking for a summer camp experience where your child can thrive in the water and have loads of fun, consider joining us this summer. Dive into fun and fitness with us at Marlboro Montessori Academy - Summer Camp!

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How Marlboro Montessori Prepares Children for Kindergarten and Beyond

By Marlboro Montessori Academy • October 15, 2025

At Marlboro Montessori Academy, we understand that a child’s early years are crucial for setting the foundation for lifelong learning. That’s why we’ve spent over four decades crafting a nurturing, engaging, and academically rich environment for children from 18 months through 12 years old. From our Montessori toddler program to our private kindergarten, we prepare children not just for the next grade level—but for a lifetime of curiosity, independence, and success. A Solid Foundation Begins in the Toddler Years Kindergarten readiness doesn’t start at age five—it begins long before that. Our Montessori toddler program welcomes children as young as 18 months into a learning environment designed just for them. Through hands-on activities, sensory exploration, and guided independence, our toddlers develop crucial skills like concentration, coordination, and confidence. We know that early childhood education is more than just letters and numbers. At this developmental stage, children are forming their attitudes toward learning. That’s why our toddler learning center emphasizes positive reinforcement, nurturing routines, and plenty of opportunities for movement and choice. Our full-day toddler care program provides a stable, consistent environment for working families while giving children the time they need to explore, play, and grow at their own pace. The Montessori approach ensures that even our youngest learners are gently guided to develop their natural abilities and express themselves in meaningful ways. The Bridge to Kindergarten Through Montessori Preschool For children ages 3 to 4, our Montessori preschool serves as a bridge between toddlerhood and kindergarten. Here, children are immersed in a classroom filled with hands-on materials and structured freedom. This unique setup encourages children to choose their activities based on their interests while also developing essential academic and social skills. Our preschoolers engage in Montessori Math, Language Arts, Practical Life, and Cultural Studies, gaining an early understanding of core subjects in a natural, engaging way. These experiences are vital in building a strong foundation for our kindergarten readiness program, where we continue to refine their skills in reading, writing, math, and more. Because our classrooms are multi-age, younger children look up to older peers, while older students develop leadership and empathy. This mixed-age structure promotes collaborative learning, a key element that helps children transition confidently into kindergarten and beyond. Preparing for Academic Success in Kindergarten Our private kindergarten is designed to go beyond traditional academic goals. We aim to nurture the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Children benefit from individualized attention, advanced Montessori materials, and a curriculum that integrates science, geography, grammar, and even environmental education through our Green Hour program at the on-site Montessori Nature Center. Unlike a conventional classroom, our full-day kindergarten offers an immersive experience where children can dive deeply into their interests, move freely within the environment, and build both academic and life skills. Every element of our program supports the development of critical thinking, independence, and resilience—skills that will carry them well beyond the kindergarten years. Learning Beyond the Classroom Our commitment to education doesn’t end with the school day. For families in need of flexible scheduling, we offer extended day care and before and after school care. These programs are thoughtfully designed to continue the Montessori philosophy, providing consistency and enrichment while supporting busy parents. We also offer seasonal enrichment programs for kids, including an educational summer camp that blends learning with outdoor fun. Our summer camp for toddlers and preschoolers maintains the same Montessori values, offering engaging activities, nature exploration, splash park fun, and social development in a relaxed, joyful setting. For elementary-aged children, our summer camp for kids includes age-appropriate academic refreshers, science experiments, arts and crafts, and plenty of time outdoors on our four-acre campus that includes a 60-foot sandbox, amphitheater, and access to nature trails. A Community Rooted in Growth and Exploration Located on four scenic acres in Morganville, our school is more than a place to learn—it’s a place to belong. The Montessori philosophy thrives in our prepared environments, where every child is known, respected, and supported in their individual journey. Whether a child is just beginning in toddler daycare or preparing to graduate from elementary school, we provide a strong foundation for future academic and personal success. We are proud to serve families throughout the surrounding communities with rolling admissions and a flexible range of schedule options, including half-day and full-day programs to accommodate each family’s needs. If you're looking for a Montessori school that prioritizes holistic growth and academic readiness, we invite you to explore all that Marlboro Montessori Academy has to offer. From toddlerhood to the elementary years, we help children thrive through every developmental milestone—and prepare them for kindergarten and beyond. To learn more or to schedule a visit, contact us today. We’d love to meet your family and help your child begin their journey of lifelong learning.

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What Makes Montessori Education Unique for Early Childhood Development

By Marlboro Montessori Academy • October 1, 2025

When it comes to setting a strong foundation for a child’s future, few approaches to learning compare to the Montessori method. At Marlboro Montessori Academy, we’ve seen firsthand how our thoughtfully crafted environment, experienced educators, and child-centered approach can transform early childhood education. For over 47 years, we’ve provided children with the opportunity to grow into confident, curious learners who are well-prepared for academic and social success. Rooted in the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, our programs encourage independence, respect for others, and hands-on learning. Whether your child is just starting out in our Montessori toddler program or getting ready for elementary school, our goal remains the same: to nurture the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. A Personalized Path in Early Childhood Education Unlike traditional classrooms, a Montessori school fosters an environment where each child can progress at their own pace. We believe that education is not one-size-fits-all, which is why our curriculum is built around self-directed learning, tailored guidance, and freedom within limits. Our early childhood education programs begin as early as 18 months with our toddler daycare and Montessori toddler program. At this stage, young children are naturally curious and eager to explore their surroundings. Through age-appropriate materials and activities, toddlers learn basic life skills, coordination, and social interaction in a nurturing setting. By the time children transition into our Montessori preschool, they are already developing a love for learning. Multi-sensorial experiences and hands-on lessons help them grasp abstract concepts in subjects like math, reading, science, and geography. More importantly, children develop intrinsic motivation—a lifelong skill that empowers them to seek knowledge independently. Encouraging Kindergarten Readiness Through a Montessori Lens Kindergarten is a significant milestone in any child’s academic journey. Our private kindergarten and kindergarten readiness program are designed to ensure that children are not only academically prepared but also socially and emotionally equipped for the challenges ahead. We offer a full-day kindergarten schedule, allowing children the time and space to engage deeply with lessons and projects. With small class sizes and individualized attention, each child receives a well-rounded education that promotes critical thinking, collaboration, and responsibility. Our classrooms are filled with Montessori materials specifically designed to enhance focus, fine motor development, and logical reasoning. Children don’t just memorize—they understand. And because we integrate real-life tasks and practical life activities into the curriculum, students leave our kindergarten with skills they can use every day. Extending the Learning Beyond the Classroom We understand that learning doesn’t stop when the school day ends. That’s why we offer a robust extended day care program, including both before and after school care. These programs provide a structured yet relaxed environment where children can engage in creative activities, complete homework, or simply unwind. Our enrichment programs for kids further support intellectual and emotional development. Whether it’s art, music, or outdoor exploration in our Montessori Nature Center, we give children diverse opportunities to discover new interests and talents. During the summer months, learning continues through our educational summer camp. Designed for children 18 months to 10 years old, our summer camp for toddlers and older children includes both full and mini camp days. With access to a splash park, sandbox, in-ground training pool, and sprawling outdoor spaces, kids enjoy the perfect balance of fun and discovery. A Community Where Every Child Thrives Located in Morganville, New Jersey, Marlboro Montessori Academy is more than a school—it’s a community. Our campus spans four beautiful acres adjacent to a family farm and the Henry Hudson Trail, offering an enriching outdoor experience that complements our indoor classrooms. Our staff is deeply committed to the Montessori philosophy and trained to observe each child’s unique needs and interests. We believe in creating a warm, inclusive environment where children feel safe, respected, and empowered to grow. We are proud to offer rolling admissions, flexible schedules, and a comprehensive curriculum that meets families where they are. Whether you’re looking for full-day toddler care, a nurturing private kindergarten, or a preschool summer camp that keeps your child engaged year-round, we invite you to discover what makes our programs so special. If you're ready to give your child the lifelong benefits of a Montessori education, we encourage you to contact us today. Schedule a tour, ask questions, or learn more about our programs by visiting our Contact Us page. We look forward to welcoming your family into our learning community.