Six-year-old kids from underprivileged families, can join free swimming lessons. Previously, kids were offered free lessons from the age of eight. This decision was made by the Eindhoven municipality, according to Dichtbij.nl, (a regional news and information site, for all Dutch regions).
The Eindhoven’s supervisory board, explains in a letter addressed to the city council, how important it is that all kids will be able to swim. Furthermore, the supervisory board wants to stimulate exercise and sports in groups. They also find that kids should learn to swim at an earlier age, since this improves their safety in the water.
The kids that can join the free swimming lessons are from families whereby the parents’ income is up-to 20% above the welfare norm. This is covered by the so-called, ‘Meedoenbijdrage’ (participation fee). Furthermore, this arrangement also applies for free cooking lessons, or free travel by bus. Parents participating already in the existing arrangements, will be receiving a message regarding the free swimming lessons.
Source: Studio040
Translation: Galit Diepens
