Dutch kids usually start around 5 years with their swimming lessons.

In the Netherlands, we have three national swimming diplomas; A, B and C. Every level requires more swimming skills. At first, they get used to the water, and they learn the basics, like the combination of breaststroke (in Dutch it's called 'schoolslag') and backstroke. They also have to swim with some clothes on. And shoes. Really? Yes! Because when you accidentally fall into the water, you wear shoes!

When they have all the needed skills, they have to take a swim test for their diploma A. After they got their diploma, they can start with the next level. To get the B and C diploma, they will get more swimming skills, like the breast crawl. They have to swim with more clothes and the distance underwater increases.

Usually, the B diploma doesn't take much time. Most Dutch children have at least their A and B diploma.

Please note: if children don't have a swimming certificate, they have to wear inflatable armbands in all public swimming pools! Most schools and children’s sports clubs in the Netherlands will not let children take part in water activities until they have achieved their swimming diploma.

Finding a swimming school can be challenging, because of a waiting list, or the lessons are completely in Dutch. If you're in the area of Leiden, I recommend Swimming School Zero 2 Hero (they swim in Voorhout and Zoetermeer), they have highly schooled teachers, don't have a waiting list, small groups and offer swimming lessons in English.