1. Practice Anywhere
No water? No problem! You can still work on swimming skills on dry land. Practice your:
- Tiger Arms - ask for ice cream scoops
- Leg Kicking – with pointy toes or robot legs
- Bubbles – think about bubbles wands
- Breaststroke Arms – use elephant, monkey, mouse
2. Googles, a game-changer for toddlers
If your child is hesitant about getting their face wet, try goggles! They provide a clear underwater view, making swimming feel more exciting and comfortable.
3. Bringing Home into the Water
If lessons feel overwhelming, try bringing your child’s favorite bath toy from home for extra reassurance. A familiar friend in the pool can make all the difference!
4. No lessons? Keep Swimming
Use condo pools or community centers to keep practicing during breaks. Regular exposure is a great way to practice your skills and maintain progress.
5. Magic Trick for Back Time
Encourage back floating by holding toys or mirrors above your baby’s head. This fun distraction helps them relax while keeping their ears in the water.
6. Pick Your Swim Gear
Let your toddler choose their own swim gear – be it a swimsuit, googles, or swim cap. When kids feel in control, it boosts their excitement and confidence! Keep in mind, their swimsuit should always go over the double diaper system.
7. Be Snack Ready
Your child works hard during their lessons! Make sure to have snacks like fruits, puffs, or rice cakes on hand after class. Don’t forget water, breast milk, or formula for hydration. Just remember, food and drinks should be enjoyed away from the poolside and changing rooms.
8. Change Things Up
Sometimes, our swimmers might be more comfortable with one carer over another, and it can be one of the reasons behind the tears or having a hard time adapting to lessons. Try switching who’s going in the water with your little one. Once they’re more comfortable in the water, try again with the other carer.
9. Find Alternatives
If your child is reluctant to use certain equipment, like mats or noodles, don’t worry – let's adapt! Encourage them to engage in different ways, such as shaking the mat or experimenting with the noodle. The key is to keep it fun!
10. The Power of Pausing
If your little one finds lessons challenging, don’t take them out of the water! Instead, let them observe the other swimmers. Sometimes, just watching their peers having fun sparks curiosity and leads them to want to join in.
11. Lead By Example
Kids learn by watching! If your child is hesitant about a skill, demonstrate it yourself. Seeing you having fun might be just what they need to give it a try.
12. Communication is Key
Toddlers thrive on routine and reassurance. Now that your child is at an age where they understand what's happening around them, explain what’s coming before starting an activity. This simple act can help them feel secure, confident and excited.
13. Celebrate Every Milestone
Every achievement, no matter big or small, deserves recognition! A big smile, plenty of praise, and a high five go a long way in reinforcing positive associations with the water. Celebrating these moments builds your child's confidence and helps them feel proud of themselves.
14. Underwater Reluctance
It’s completely normal for babies and toddlers to feel hesitant about going underwater. Here a few tricks to help them overcome their fears:
- Play games like Simon Says to encourage face-in-the-water
- Practice Name, Are Your Ready? Go or Bubbles in class and at home
- Go underwater first to show them how much fun it is
- Join them underwater for extra reassurance
- Shift the focus away from going underwater and turn it into a game, like looking for a fish or playing peek-a-boo.
With these tips in mind, you’re well equipped to help your baby or toddler become a confident little swimmer. Remember, patience is key, and the most important thing is to have fun together along the way!