Learn to Swim Tips

• Consistency is Key – Schedule at least 2 swim lessons per week. The closer together the lessons are scheduled, the progress will be greater.
• Practice is Key – Spend at least 1 hour per week in the pool outside of class. This can include just ‘playing’ in the water.
• Patience is Key – Work through your child’s fears with them and talk to them about what scares them the most about putting their face in the water.
• New Habits are Necessary – Once the child has begun swim lessons, do not allow them to continue to use floaties or blow up ring. They need to get used to swimming without these devices in order to maximize their potential progress.
• Parents Around the Pool – Some children become distracted and are not as willing to try new things if the parent is around the pool. During the lesson, remain “out of sight out of mind” for the child. Perhaps just watch the class from a distance.
• Positive Relationship with the Water – We want to allow the child to develop their swim habits in a nurturing environment. Dunking or the ‘sink or swim’ methodology is not recommended in helping the child establish a positive view of water and swimming. Instead, use toys or games or the use of goggles to help the child learn to feel comfortable putting their face in the water on their own terms.