What will we do? ​

We will start by getting comfortable in the water and with each other. Their face will be going in the water during the first lesson. Additionally we will be interacting with waterproof toys which can help distract from discomfort. For example, picking up toys from the steps can help to encourage children to put their heads underwater without fear.​​​​

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Proper Form From the Start

There is no effective way to teach swimming without hands-on instruction, especially for beginners. ​Proper technique, particularly head positioning, is critical for safety and long term success in the water. All new swimmer instinctively try to keep the or face out of the water, which puts​​​ them in a vertical position, this very posture leads to drowning. To break this instinct and develop correct form your child will need physical guidance. The most commonly being a steady hand on the back of the neck to encourage chin down positioning. This isn't optional. It's a foundational part of how proper swimming is taught. Even adult swimmers require this kind of correction early on, so it's entirely expected that children will too. With 9 summers of teaching and mentorship under an instructor with over 30+ years of experience, I follow a tried and true method.

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Tears​

It is very common for a child to cry during their first few swim lessons due to the new environment, fear of the pool, and separation anxiety. For children under five, crying is a common and age appropriate way to express discomfort or uncertainty. While it can be difficult to witness as a parent, rest assured that this is a normal part of the learning process. Just like when a child cries before a nap or a doctor’s visit, protesting during swim lessons are a part of a child doing something essential for their safety and well-being. Most children will stop crying by the 3rd or 4th lesson as we build trust and they become more comfortable in the water.

 

More information about swim anxiety can be found on the FAQs page.

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No Goggles​

My top priority is teaching water safety which is why I do not allow student to wear swim goggles unless they can already make their way across the pool without them. Whether in open water or at a public pool, children may not always have their goggles on. In an emergency situation, such as falling into a pool or off a boat, a child taught to swim without them is better equipped to calmly navigate various water conditions.​ By learning to swim without them, they’re better prepared for any situation where they need to swim without the aid of extra equipment.​​​

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Sunscreen​

I ask that sunscreen be applied at least 30 minutes prior to the lessons. If the sunscreen isn't completely absorbed into the skin it ends up washing off into the water and then into your child's eyes. ​

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Swim Diapers ​

Young ones who are still in diapers need to be wearing a swim diaper. 

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Pool Temperature

The pool needs to be heated to at least 86 degrees. Ideally for children 4 or younger the pool should be heated to 88 degrees.​​​​​​​​

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More swim information can be found on the FAQ page.​​​​​​