It’s normal for kids to fear going into the water before learning how to swim. Although doing anything for the first time is scary, it is not something to worry about. Even as adults, you may sometimes get cold feet before taking a huge step or trying something out of the ordinary. So, as their parents you need to handle this situation very carefully. Give them the right support and guidance to help them overcome their fear of the water and enjoy swimming. Tag along as we discuss fighting fears and finding the best swimming lessons for kids as beginners.

If you fail to address your kid’s water fear appropriately, then it can have lasting anxieties that will hamper their ability to learn a life skill. It will also form a negative association with swimming and linger into their adulthood. Conversely, a helpful and patient approach can promote a series of lifelong enjoyment!

Ways You can Help You Kids

You need to maintain a calm and encouraging environment so that your kid is prepared and eager to go to their swimming lessons. If the water makes them nervous or anxious then here are some tips that can help:

Find Out Why

Sometimes, the kid is too young to express their emotions and to describe how they are feeling and why. However, it is not that difficult to figure out what they are feeling but rather why. Is this something new? Is it the place or the people? Are they scared to go into the classes or are they shy in front of strangers? It could be that they are anxious about not being with you. If that’s the case, then you can try stepping out for a while and observe their behaviour. If they get back to the instructor in your absence, then let them focus. Time and patience can be big factors to resolve such issues.

Turn it into a Bonding Session

If your kid is too young to be left independently, then you have the option of parent and Tot lessons, where you can accompany them. You can take your baby as early as 4 months, which can help them adjust to the environment. In this program, your kids can learn to swim while you can build your confidence in handling them in water. Together, both of you can have an excellent bonding session while learning something that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

Be Realistic

It should be no surprise if your kid ends up in tears on their first day. All the kids cry! They cry when you leave them at daycare and when they sleep; sometimes, they don’t even need a reason. It is natural for them to cry during their swimming lessons, so don’t worry. Well, what you can do is plan properly. The two main reasons why kids cry are hunger and sleep. So, make sure to feed them a light meal before the classes and pick the classes that don’t clash with their nap time. 

Have A Positive Outlook

Every kid loves being cheered on, especially by their parents. Nothing can calm their minds like a joyful, confident parent supporting and applauding them. No matter how small their achievements are, whether it’s stepping into the water or even just blowing bubbles, make sure you have a positive outlook. It is your responsibility as their parents to be calm so they can settle in quickly.

Start at Home

Let your kid play in the water at home, although under supervision. Before starting swimming lessons, you can take them to water parks or pools to build their comfort in water. Take the toys with you and allow your kid to have fun and enjoy the whole experience. 

End Note

Once your kid overcomes their fear of water or just going to swimming lessons in general, then you can take the main step. It’s time to start finding kid’s swimming lessons for beginners near you and enroll them! Visit us today. We have affordable swimming lessons for both kids and parents!