Enrolling your child in swim lessons is something every parent should do. But, some parents have never learned how to swim. You might think this matters. Don’t let it! Your child’s safety is important. Here are some things to think about when your giving your kids swimming lessons:
Don’t Spread Your Fear of Water to Your Children
What happens often, is that a parent who doesn’t know how to swim will often “plant” seeds of anxiety in their childen. “Rona, are you sure your going to be OK going underwater”. If you have reservations, you can always ask the teacher for some help. Don’t let your fears spread to your chidren.
The best solution to this problem is to tell your children how pleased you are that they are getting to learn something that you didn’t. Be honest with them! Tell them that you wish that you had learned. Let them know that you are excited that they are getting to learn something that you didn’t. Tell them that they can show you some things that might help you learn. Even though you don’t know how to swim, remain positive and support what they are doing.
Learn Water Safety Practices
Your children will be learning to swim with skilled instructors nearby. This will not always be the case. Even though you might not know how to swim, there are safety practices that you need to learn.
Take a course in CPR. Your local Red Cross Chapter is always teaching this. It is critical that as a parent that you learn this skill. Also, learn how you can provide life saving support even from outside the pool. Your local chapter of the YMCA can help with this.
And, remember, never find yourself as a soul chaperone of a group of kids near a pool. Always have at least one(if not two) adult who knows how to swim helping you chaperone.
It’s Never Too Late
You,too, can still learn to swim. It is never too late. Ask your children’s instructor. They can likely refer you to someone or someplace that teaches adults how to swim. Again, your local chapter of the YMCA can probably help you.
Life Saver Survival Swim School, LLC is always here to help you. If you have any questions, please ask me Bonnie, by telephoning (832) 367-3008. Or, you can email me.