Hi,
my kids still do it and love it. Best on the beach and in the water than elsewhere in my opinion. But, not everyone loves the water and some parents expect their children to do more than they could or would do themselves. I would say it's not like a sports club where you can drop your kids and go, always best to offer a hand with the age group your children are in. Being in the water and actively training will require police clearance.
The 'Blackheads', I don't know much other than seeing them at carnivals and having an unfortunate nickname
The kids get great all round water skills and confidence. However, the 'deep' water can get into their heads and they can get paranoid but that can be the same for adults. But, with all the supervision, where else would they get the opportunity to overcome it? Obviously, the s word can also strike fear! Overall, the kids learn a lot, have fun and hopefully learn about social responsibility.
Cheers,
Cooler