Learning to swim: Day One

An article by Claire    1 Comment

Today we started our Seriously Fun Swim School beginners holiday course at Roedean School. Each day this week, I’ll be writing about how our 3 year old progresses in the lessons plus give an insight into the different exercises they learn.

Despite us making her aware of what was going to happen at the swim class, today did not go to plan. First thing this morning, she burst into the room with her swim gear on, very proud. We arrived early at the pool, misjudging how quick it takes to get from our house, and observed the first lesson. They were more advanced but she watched them doing their exercises, even counting and mimicking the instructions from the teacher. It all looked positive that she would join in at that point.

When it was time for their lesson, she let me put a swim cap on her but the resistance started with the armbands. Little L would not go in the pool, despite some very kind, soft coaxing from Friedel, she was too timid and getting wound up. It probably didn’t help that I was getting stressed, as I didn’t want to disrupt the class. I tried very calmly to talk her into putting her armbands on but she got more frustrated and started to have a tantrum. I took her away from the poolside and calmed her down. We got her comfort toy ‘bunny’ and watched the rest of the lesson, it was the only thing we could do.

Meanwhile the rest of the class where storming ahead in their exercises. There was a focus on kicking and getting the kids to use their feet. They started the lesson with armbands, learned how to get in the pool safetly and move in the water. The teacher then gave them each a turn with no armbands to get a feel for the water, with her holding their arms. The kids also jumped from the side to Friedel, who caught them. It was genuinely lovely to see the proud looks on their faces as they managed to complete each exercise successfully. Their confidence most definitely increased in that first 30 minute lesson.

As for Little L, her reaction was a worry to me but not a complete surprise. We haven’t taken her swimming much at all, so the environment wasn’t familiar to her. I should also say that my husband isn’t too comfortable in the water either so this potentially rubs off. I managed to encourage her to kick her legs in the water while sitting on the side of the pool, which she enjoyed. It was a small step in the right direction. When the lesson finished, we took her to get changed with her classmates, mainly so she’s feel included in the whole experience. Everyone was very supportive and friendly towards her, I guess most people have had a similar experience of being shy or nervous.

Part of me wonders if a holiday course is a bit full-on for a toddler, then again, I can’t help but think by taking her every day, it will build her confidence. Regardless of my concerns, we will be back tomorrow to give it all another go. She has already said she wants to go in the pool. I’m hoping she’ll try out armbands and at least a small dip. Let’s see.