Tips on How to Make Your Reluctant Swimmer More Comfortable Going to Swimming Lessons

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After researching to find the perfect swim school in your area, you arrive for your child’s first lesson only to have them meltdown at the side of the pool and refuse to get into the water. If this has happened to you, the first thing to know is that you are not alone. It is not uncommon for young children to show fear or reluctance when faced with the prospect of entering a pool for the first time. This can happen for several reasons. Some babies and toddlers simply feel uneasy about being surrounded by water, especially if it is unfamiliar to them. Separation anxiety is another common reason, especially being with an unknown instructor and not their usual caregiver. Other children can experience sensory overload, with the noise, lights, smell, and temperature of the pool overwhelming their senses and making them feel anxious.

Whilst parents can experience frustration or embarrassment when a child refuses to take part in their swimming lesson and be tempted to force or cajole their child to take part, it is important to remain patient and reassuring. Heightened emotions will often only increase their anxiety and impede progress. Instead, keep in mind that helping reluctant kids feel more comfortable with swimming is often a gradual process. The good news is that there are plenty of things that parents can do to encourage their child to feel at ease with learning to swim.

Get Into the Water with Them

If possible, find a swimming school that allows you to join them in the water so that they are reassured and calm. Seeing you relaxed in the water can help them to feel calmer and safe.
“Our Parent-Child swim school programs (Wonderbabies and Wondertots) have been designed to allow babies and toddlers to be extended in the appropriate way for their; age, developmental readiness, and ability,” explains Mark Cecil, CEO of Paul Sadler Swimland. “As a parent or carer, you get to be in the water with your little one, enjoying this bonding experience together and sharing some wonderful one-
on-one time. We teach safety and survival skills, in a nurturing way, from the very first lesson, and making sure your child is comfortable in the water is a fundamental part of this.”

Incorporate Water Play at Home

The great news is you don’t need a swimming pool to help your child get used to the feel of water. Playing with water in a safe environment, like a shallow pool or even a bathtub can help children see water as fun.
Here’s some water play ideas you can try at home:

Blowing bubbles
Pouring cups
Gentle splashing
Kick practice
Face wetting games

Use Positive Reinforcement

Allowing children to take small steps at their own pace and praising even minor progress such as sitting beside the pool or dipping their toes or fingers in the water can help to build confidence. Small rewards and/or encouragement can motivate a child to take the next step.

Introduce Fun Water Toys

Water toys can be great for distracting children away from their fear and encourage them to have lots of fun in the water.

Let Them Choose Their Own Swimming Gear

Allowing your child to pick out their own swimsuit with their favourite character or in their preferred colour can help them to feel some ownership and create a sense of excitement at being able to wear it at their next swimming class.

Be Patient and Reassuring

Pushing reluctant or fearful children too hard, too soon can be counterproductive. Allowing them to progress at their own pace, no matter how slow, will get them into the water and having fun much quicker than showing frustration.
“Starting young but moving at a comfortable pace is key to helping children become confident and safe around water,” explains Cecil.

Visit Paul Sadler’s Swimland website to find a centre near you.