It’s no secret that kids jump from one activity to another faster than you can purchase all the equipment for their new interests. Swim lessons, like any other activity, can appear boring and repetitive after the novelty of the first few lessons wears off. However, with drowning still being the leading cause of death for children under 14 in Canada, it’s vital that parents find a way to encourage their young swimmers to stick through classes.
While our coaches are well equipped to adapt to your child’s learning style where some children require more structure when learning whereas others require learning to feel like a game (even though they’re still learning), parents play a vital role in keeping that motivation going. Here at Swim Fins, we often get parents asking how they can get their children excited for their swimming lessons so we’ve compiled some pieces of advice we’ve found helpful to some parents:
Find out why. Ask your child why they don’t want to attend lessons anymore. Maybe they miss having their best friend in lessons with them like last session? Maybe they’re unhappy with the way their swimwear fits. Finding out why your child is losing interest is the first step in finding a way to motivate them to attend lessons.
Ask positive questions after your child’s lesson. Asking questions like “Wasn’t it fun how your coach had you dive for rings?” instead of “Was your lesson fun today?” can help lead your child to look for the positive sides to their lessons. This can help them develop a positive relationship with the water and swimming.
Brainstorm a goal or challenge for them to work towards in their lessons. Children often feel more motivated to complete lessons when they have a goal or outcome they can work towards. Whether it be swimming a certain distance unassisted or learning a specific swimming technique, having a tangible but achievable goal will help your child build motivation to attend their lessons.
Let them have fun! Although swimming lessons are a place for learning, there’s always room for a little fun and games during the lesson.
Come up with a fun post swimming activity together! After your child’s lesson, plan a quick but rewarding activity for you and your child like getting hot chocolate on the way home or making a quick stop to pick up a snack. The positive activity can reinforce the positive feelings that come from attending swim lessons.
We currently have lessons year round at our pools in Richmond, Surrey, White Rock, Langley, Cloverdale, and Abbotsford. For more information on our programs, how to register, and much more, head over to our website! Come swim with Swim Fins: https://www.swimfins.ca/register