Wednesday, 06 August 2008

• Swimming Lessons Can Save Your Child!

  by babyfever25

  

  I know that for some parents, swimming lessons are out of the question because they can be costly or time-consuming. Yes, they are but making sure that your children know the ins and outs of swimming can save their lives. As a former swim instructor, I encourage you to engage your children in some kind of swimming program, even if they come out only knowing the basics, because this is a serious matter. Honestly, how many times have you opened the newspaper and found an article about a little boy or girl drowning?
  

  Although there may be some hesitation on spending money at a swim school, there is an upside to lessons. They're actually really fun and safety is a given. I was a swim instructor for a while, and boy, do I have stories! There are the kids who have hit me because they are scared of the water and don't know how to deal with their fears, and then the cute little ones who you develop a strong bond with. This bond is what I really loved about the job.

  One of my special moments as an instructor was when I taught the tiniest and cutest red-haired girl, Olivia. She was about two years old and well, at first she was a doozy. The moment I picked her up, I told myself I'd never have children because her screams could probably cause an earthquake. Anyway, after trying to calm her down with a soft "It's okay, sweetie. I'm not going to drop you," it only made things worse. Next were the toys... negative. But then I found every mother's cure -- singing. From then on, Olivia never gave me a problem. She would fall asleep on my shoulder as I kicked her feet and sang God-knows-what.

  Although it's rough at times to teach children how to swim, here are some basic tips.
  

  • Hold on tight! Whatever you do, do not let go of your child or someone else's if you are teaching him or her how to swim. Especially if they are just starting, it's good to hold them because they may be afraid of the water.
  • Be patient. Some children are easier to teach than others. Some may be scared, some may be stubborn, and you might even have to teach children who are autistic or have other disabilities. Remember, it's not just difficult for you, but for them as well. 
  • Go at a slow pace. Start off with the basics, such as "big arms." Have your child face the wall and do 20 big arms, alternating right to left. Also, make sure that they are kicking their feet when they are swimming and are comfortable holding their breath under water. Do not shove the poor kid under water, either. Take baby steps.
  • Lastly... be enthusiastic! Encourage your child (or student) to practice swimming techniques, such as big arms, and always have a smile on your face. Think positively, even when you are frustrated and making little progress. He or she will not become a professional swimmer overnight so be supportive and make sure you teach in a stress-free environment.

  Swim classes aren't always easy, but it's worth your time and money. Worried about what age to start? You can start with a Mommy/Daddy and Me class (I believe most babies are around 6-8 months old) or wait until they are one or two years old... whenever you want. It's important, though, to start them at a young age because that's where he/she will benefit the most.

  Do you ever worry about your kids and water safety? When do you plan on teaching them to swim or when did your children learn how to swim?

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