If you have a younger swimmer, talk positively about swimming and how much fun it will be. If they have had a negative experience in the past, don't remind them or if they remember, help them know this will be better! A positive, can-do and willing to try attitude is the most important thing- and that starts with the parent.
For the younger and nervous swimmers, sometimes they wonder what to expect. The first lesson - and pretty much every lesson- will start with kicks to get use to the water, then we will go into arms, bubbles and floats (all with assistance and at THEIR speed), and we will end with toy time.
Will they go underwater the first day? That depends on the child and if THEY are ready. Ready is not simply a can they close their mouth, but mentally ready. Their first lesson especially, I want them to build trust, confidence and comfort with me and the pool. Kids that can make discussions need to decide they are ready and willing to go underwater- and if forced before, it generally can regress them. So we will use a combination of toys, games and talking to them to get them to deciding they want to go underwater. Once they go under (even if its not all the way), praise, praise and more praise. Then once they come to you after the lesson, all of the praise. We want them to be so excited they can't wait to do it again. Some kids don't go underwater the second or even third lesson- and that's okay. We are going to keep working other skills and working toward going underwater.
Go to the bathroom prior to the lesson!! Swim diapers for those not potty trained.
Parents are not expected to be in the pool but should remain onsite. Be where is comfortable for you and your swimmer. You are welcome to hide out of view (or stay on the pool deck).
After the lesson, the instructor will give you a quick summary of what we did and anything you can work on (and in summer, what to work on in the water between lessons). If you would like more details, feel free to ask or send a message!
Swim lessons- especially private swim lessons- are a hard workout both physically and mentally! Expect tired and hungry kids so have snacks ready for after. Many kids will enjoy a good long nap after. Speaking of nap time, never allow lessons to be scheduled over nap time. If you don't see another time besides nap time available to schedule, reach out and we might be able to open up a time.
Goggles are highly encouraged. There are many styles and types available, explorer what fits their face. Avoid goggles that cover the nose. Feel free to use mine until its understood what works and doesn't for them.
Secure loose hair. Braid or ponytail hair. If hair gets into the google, it will not allow a full seal and water will come in. Plus over the eyes when swimming.
Swim caps and ear plugs are optional. Some kids/ parents like them, others don't. Very few wear them but they can if they want.
Nose plugs and snorkel masks (not COVID mask, but snorkel swim masks) are discouraged. We want kids to understand what to do with their nose. If they are at a friend's house with out it, it falls off in the pool or they fall into a pool/lake, we want them to know what to do. That being said, if they currently are use to them, we will transition and make them comfortable without. Generally once they understand nose bubbles will prevent water from going up their nose, they are happy to switch to regular goggles.
Sunscreen should be applied even on cloudy days.
We have been around the pool a long time, so if you have any questions, please ask! We are here to help you and your swimmer!