Swimming is one of those few undeniably vital skills that could one day end up saving your child’s life or the lives of others some day. That being said, kids aren’t always excited to get into the pool those first few times. To help you set your child up for success in their swimming lessons, here’s our top 5 tips to encourage your child to take that first step to becoming a super confident swimmer.
1. Use Motivating Words
Use positive and inspiring words to encourage the progress your child is making at the start and end of lessons. Help them focus on the fun things they’ve experienced in the pool. Learning new skills can be frustrating for kids, remember to keep it positive and focus on how far they’ve come already!
2. Make Swim Lessons Fun
Get social! Share the fun of swimming lessons with their friends and family. Take photos and videos of where they started and where they are now and send them to grandma and grandpa. Hearing the positive words of other loved ones can help your child see the difference they’ve made. Do they have cousins or siblings that could join Swim Fins for a session? See if they can attend the same class and make it more fun. If they don’t know anyone in their classes, encourage your child to make friends with the other kids in their class.
3. Take A Break, Remember to Breathe
Getting a reluctant swimmer into the water can be stressful. Remember to take a deep breath (both you and your child) and release the stress that comes from dealing with a child that’s learning a new skill. One benefit of not being on the pool deck means that you can try to take some time for yourself as you wait for them to finish. Go grab a coffee, read a book in the car, take a walk, anything to ease your mind for that stretch of time.
4. Reinforce Learning Outside Lessons
Take your child to a community pool or local beach and let them safely show off what they’ve learned so far. Try getting in the water with them and make practicing their skills a game. Reinforcing the skills they've learned in other locations will help your child feel more confident in their next lesson!
5. Ask For Some Assistance
Your number 1 resource at swim lessons is your coach. They may be able to recommend other equipment or have tips based on their experiences teaching that will help your child enjoy swim lessons more. Our coaches and staff are always here for you if you need help.
Our program runs 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