Make a splash! 7 things to know about starting kids’ swimming lessons

Posted in Indoor and Outdoor.
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Getting kids off to the right start when it comes to water awareness, safety and swimming is top of every modern parent’s mind. 

With the warmer weather on its way, we delved a little deeper into children’s swimming classes to help families get started and make the most of their aquatic adventures together. Here’s our key tips:

1. Start early

Experts say babies can start age-appropriate swimming lessons once they’ve turned four-months-old. At this age, their immune system is more ready for exposure to the big wide world, and they are strong enough to enjoy playing in the water with a parent or carer.

Brilliantly, modern swimming facilities are heated to ensure little swimmers are comfortable at any time of the year and these early lessons in water familiarisation set the tone for future fun.

Dad and baby swimming

2. Do some splashy homework!

It’s always fun to schedule in a little DIY homework, in addition to more formal swimming classes. Use bath time to familiarise your bub with the water, or take your baby in the shower with you. You can even hit up the pool before or after your lesson for some family free-time too. 

3. Get involved – and focus on fun

Look for swimming lessons that encourage parent involvement and adapt to childrens’ abilities. Classes should be fun-packed and stress-free. Reluctant beginners should be just as welcome and catered to as more adventurous water babies. “A good school will welcome your positive involvement,” the Australian Swim Schools Association confirms.

4. Do your research when it comes to swimming schools

Finding a reputable swimming school is super important. Look for small classes, well-qualified staff, spotless facilities, national certification, a clear curriculum and comfortable water and air temperature. Schools like Paul Sadler Swimland (in Victoria and Queensland) boast a long history in the business and been recognised with multiple awards. 

Great swimming teachers will have plenty of parents queuing up to sing their praises, so observe the classes you’re thinking of joining with your baby and chat to the current alumni.

baby swimming lessons

5. Embrace the bonding experience

Having new experiences, facing challenges and playing together are all brilliant ways to grow closer to your little one.  Talk your child through all the fun parts of going swimming – packing the swimming bag, driving to the pool, getting ready to swim and finally getting wet together with their classmates. When it’s all over, and everyone’s dry, warm and dressed, head off for a snack together (swimming makes everyone hungry) and talk through what you most enjoyed together that day.

6. Keep it simple

While some kids find swimming with goggles and floatation devices makes them feel more confident in the water, it’s best to talk to your child’s swimming teacher about their approach to these kind of water accessories. Many teachers prefer to keep it simple, only using teaching aids when helpful for a child’s skill development.

7. Find your people

Swim classes are a great place to connect with other mums and dads, talk about the trials and tribulations of parenting and extend your social circle a little further. It’s a win-win-win!

This post is brought to you by Paul Sadler Swimland.

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