Everybody Into the Pool

"What we discovered through the research . . . [is] parents from Hispanic communities and African American communities who represent drowning [accidents] of children under the age of 16 are dealing with some inherent fears of the water," said John Cruzat Jr., USA Swimming's diversity specialist. "This manifests in them not taking their children to quality learn-to-swim programs even if they exist in their communities."

USA Swimming hopes to change the trend. In March, the organization teamed with YMCA of the USA in launching a campaign to offer free or low-cost swim lessons for at-risk children. "I know USA Swimming has a long-term strategic plan to increase minority participation, not only from a competitive standpoint but a public health standpoint," said Richard Southall, a researcher involved with the study.

Back at Fairwood Community Pool, Mason's lessons continued. During a recent 9:30 a.m. session, a group of 14 children, none older than 4, joined hands with instructor Angela Cummings to form a circle. They bobbed above water, their toes grazing the smooth surface three feet below. It was time to end the day with a game called "Tea Party."

"Go under [the water] and set the table!" Cummings told the children. "Go, go, go! Good job!

"Go under and pass out the cookies!

"How many cookies did you eat, Tomi?"

"Eighteen!" the girl said.

"Eighteen! Oh, my goodness!"

"The kids, their smiles are always so happy," Cummings said later.

"You can't be in a bad mood when you have 2-year-olds happy to swim."