Minority Youth Swimming: Barriers Affecting Participation and Ability

African American (AA) children suffer fatal drowning events at significantly higher rates when compared to white peers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2008), unintentional fatal drowning is the second leading cause of death for AA adolescent males. The American Academy of Pediatrics (2003) recommends research to better understand swimming barriers encountered by disenfranchised populations, but empirical research concerning minority children's swimming ability is nonexistent (USA Swimming, 2006). This research presentation, for the first time, will report; 1) swimming ability information for marginalized youth, and 2) selected demographic variables influencing swimming ability for these populations. Cross-sectional survey research was employed in six US cities (Chicago, IL, Houston, TX, Memphis, TN, Miami, FL, Oakland, CA, and Philadelphia, PA). Young Christian Men's Association (YMCA) organizations were used to solicit subjects. A large sample (n=1,680) was gathered, which targeted poor, minority children. Parents of children aged 4-11 years and adolescents (12-17 years) completed surveys that research team members or trained YMCA staff supervised during non-swimming, school-site YMCA programs. Descriptive and inferential statistics were observed, and multiple regression was applied using significant demographic variables by swimming ability. Results revealed that AA respondents reported a 57.5% “at risk” (unable to swim or uncomfortable in deep end of pool) swimming ability. Hispanic/Latino (H/L) children noted a 56.2% “at risk” level as compared to 30.9% for White subjects. Age, sex, child's lunch program, parental education, and racial identity variables were all significantly (p<.05) related to swimming ability. Regression analysis revealed all demographic variables fell into a significant model (p<.001) as predictor variables. Within this sample, poor minority children, specifically AA and H/L, were at significant disadvantage concerning swimming ability. Female subjects were notably more “at risk” regarding their swimming ability than males. Age, race, and socioeconomic factors (lunch program and parental education) were significant barrier variables for children who have low swimming ability. Additionally, information regarding school-based "Learn to Swim" programs in Memphis, TN, will be discussed as possible solutions to this deadly problem. Audience input will be requested to expand on other possible solutions.

Learner Objectives:

1. Understand that minority children are at a significant disadvantage regarding swimming ability and may drown at higher rates due to this disparity.

2. List significant predictor variables that impact minority children's swimming ability.

3. Become familiar with free “Learn to Swim” programs and how to implement one in their school system/community.