Swimming in the Netherlands: The ABCs of staying afloat
If you’re new to the country, you might have already noticed that swimming is a serious business here. While in some countries swimming is a fun extracurricular activity, in the Netherlands it’s considered a life skill—right up there with riding a bike and knowing how to dodge cyclists. Welcome to the world of the Dutch Zwem-ABC!
What is the Zwem-ABC?
The Zwem-ABC is the official swimming diploma system in the Netherlands. It consists of three levels: A, B, and C, each designed to make children progressively stronger, more confident, and safer in the water. While the A-diploma gives kids the basics of swimming and survival, the B-diploma builds on those skills, and the C-diploma ensures they can handle even the most challenging water situations, like swimming in open water.
Why is it called ABC?
ABC stands for the three diploma levels, but it might as well stand for Always Be Careful. In a country filled with canals, rivers, lakes, and a serious love for water sports, the ability to swim isn’t just a nice-to-have: it’s essential. Dutch children typically start swimming lessons between ages four and six, and many parents won’t even consider enrolling their kids in other sports until they’ve earned at least their A diploma. After all, what’s the point of playing soccer if you can’t get yourself out of a pond first?
Why do kids learn to swim with clothes on?
One of the most surprising things for newcomers is that Dutch kids learn to swim while wearing full clothing. No, it’s not just a quirky tradition, it’s a critical safety measure. The reality is that if someone accidentally falls into a canal or lake, they won’t be wearing a swimsuit. Practicing swimming in clothes teaches kids what that feels like, how to stay calm, and how to safely get to shore or call for help.
Swimming first, then everything else
In the Netherlands, swimming is often a must before kids dive into other activities like gymnastics, football, hockey, or piano lessons. It’s a bit like learning to walk before you run—or swim before you cycle past a canal without falling in. Schools, municipalities (de gemeente), and parents all prioritize swimming lessons, ensuring that by the time a child moves on to another sport, they have a lifesaving skill in their pocket.
In fact, many water-based activities in the Netherlands, such as sailing, water polo, and even themed mermaid parties for girls, require a minimum swimming diploma. Having at least an A diploma is often a requirement to participate, ensuring that children can safely enjoy these experiences without unnecessary risks.
Government support for swimming education
The Dutch government also recognizes the importance of swimming education. Through the principle of school swimming (schoolzwemmen), there is an official goal that at least 95% of children entering secondary school should have earned at least their A diploma. This initiative ensures that swimming proficiency is not just a parental responsibility but a nationwide priority.
The Dutch swimming culture
For many Dutch families, getting an A, B, or C diploma is a rite of passage. Parents proudly watch their kids pass their diploma tests (sometimes with a little anxiety as they see them jump into the deep end fully clothed), and celebrations often follow. It’s an achievement that marks not just swimming ability but also independence, confidence, and a deep respect for water.
So, if you’re new to the Netherlands and wondering why your neighbours are so obsessed with swimming lessons, now you know! It’s not just a sport—it’s survival. And who knows? Maybe one day you’ll find yourself signing up for lessons too. After all, when in the Netherlands, swim like the Dutch!
For adults and special needs children:
At Well Cares Swimming, we believe swimming is for everyone, not just kids mastering the ABC diplomas. Whether you’re an adult looking to learn a vital life skill or supporting a special needs child to gain confidence in the water, our tailored programs ensure safety and enjoyment for all.