We started swimming lessons this summer 2018 at swimmer man swim school. I enjoyed the intimate mommy and me class. Including Dylan there were 5 kids total . Looking from the outside of the location you would wonder how big could the pool be?
The classes are designed to teach preventative strategies while allowing you and your child to get comfortable as they go under water, jump in the pool and learn how to get out safely on their own.
OK, I’m all about being transparent. Here is the real, real . Dylan was not completely feeling the swim class. The instructors were so patient and understanding. They would almost turn the class into let’s get Dylan comfortable. Sorry, other mommy's and babies. Dylan’s favorite part of the class was when the bell rang. He would immediately start smiling and waving bye to everyone as we walked out. It always made everyone laugh how he would instantly stop crying and start laughing. However, I was determined to stick it out and get him comfortable. It didn’t work, loll. At least that’s what I thought.
We recently went to our family reunion in Jamaica and Dylan became Michael Phelps. He was comfortable jumping into my arms at the pool, crying to go back in the pool and comfortable going to the beach with or without me. I couldn’t believe this was the same screaming toddler from swim class. I’m happy to say Dylan’s swim lessons made him very comfortable on our summer vacations this year. We’re definitely continuing swim lessons. I’ll keep you guys updated on his progress.
It’s a great idea to start your child in swim lessons. It’s a good way to teach you and your child how to feel comfortable and safe around water while enjoying summer fun. Swim lessons are not a drown proof method of not keeping an eye on your child in the pool. The AAP notes that drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury and death in the pediatric age group and that drowning rates are the highest among children ages 1 through 2 years. Learn to use the “touch supervision” which means keeping child in arms reach even in a flotation device. Lastly, it’s a great idea to learn CPR In-case of emergency.