Helpful Tips for Swim Class
Every once in a while, I like to take the time to remind all of our parents some things that will help you and your swimmer at class, both in and out of the water. Here are a few tips to keep in mind. PLEASE MAKE SURE TO SHARE THEM WITH GRANDPARENTS, FAMILY MEMBERS AND CAREGIVERS that may also bring your swimmer to class!
1) Never promise your swimmer a certain coach. Sometimes coaches are sick or have a schedule conflict; now the substitute is setup for failure because that’s not who mommy/daddy promised. Instead promise your swimmer a great time in class, fun jumps, toys, the boat ride, a sticker, etc. Encourage your swimmer to enjoy the experience of swimming, not just the person they are swimming with.
2) If your swimmer is old enough to walk, we encourage you to put them down and let them walk. This will help your swimmer build independence and confidence. Letting your swimmer walk to the pool makes the separation easier for the swimmer, parent and coach. We all know how tough it can be to remove a “CLING-ON.”
3) If you are a parent of a Beginning Mudskipper, it’s best to plan on going inside to watch your swimmer during the group class. Your instructor will let you know when your swimmer is emotionally ready for you to sit outside and watch class. We know all of our parents have great intentions; however, sitting outside when your swimmer is emotional does NOT help anyone. If you think you are soothing your child because he or she can see you, it actually has the opposite effect. In fact, you are actually making your swimmer and the coach more frustrated because your swimmer is more focused on you and not bonding with the swimming experience.
4) If your swimmer is still emotional, that is OK! Every swimmer is different, our coaches and staff will work on ways to help you and your swimmer to overcome the anxiety and build confidence. Coming more than once a week to group class is extremely beneficial for emotional swimmers to find their confidence within. The group classes offer both a good form of peer pressure with other happy swimmers, and the consistency of group classes helps to build the swimmer’s trust and confidence.
Related posts:
The Home Swimmer and the Swim School Swimmer
“Don’t Overthink it!”: Helping an Anxious Swimmer
Parenting a Successful Athlete
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