Getting your child swim lessons is a gift that will last a lifetime. Swimming is an important skill that not only leads to optimal health, but increased confidence and self-esteem. Knowing how to swim can even save a life. Not to mention the obvious–swimming is fun!
Here’s a parent’s guide to swim lessons.
The Importance of Starting Early
There isn’t a set age by which kids should take their first swim lesson. But there are many benefits to getting your kids into the water sooner rather than later.
That’s why at Njswim we offer Water Babies classes.
Babies as young as three months old can start to learn about breath control, balance, buoyancy, and movement. And, most importantly, they’ll feel safe and relaxed in the water.
These aren’t small accomplishments—in fact, they will lay the foundation for all their future swim experiences.
Additional Benefits of Water Babies Classes
Water babies swim classes offer these benefits for your baby:
- Improved coordination and balance
- Better muscle strength
- Improved sleep
- Strengthening of parent/child bond
- Improved social relationships
- Increased concentration and alertness
Here’s more reasons to enroll your baby in swim class.
Toddlers’ Fears of Water
The more your child is exposed to the water in a proper manner, the lower the likelihood of them developing a fear of water. This fear, which can be quite disruptive at bath time, commonly develops at one to two years of age.
Our Njswim swim teachers are gentle and supportive and will always help ensure a positive swim experience for your child, regardless of their age.
Our “learn to float” swim philosophy highlights the importance of feeling comfortable and at home in the water. Your child develops confidence as they learn new skills.
Choose the Best Swim School
Select a swim school that both you and your child are comfortable with. It should prioritize both practicing and teaching water safety.
It’s important that the school’s swim teachers are:
- Trained and certified in water safety
- Trained in child development and teaching swimming to kids
- Supportive
- Excited about working with kids
Look for swim classes that are limited to only three kids. Here’s how to figure out the best level swim class for your child.
Learn more about what to consider when choosing a swim school.
Preparing for the First Lesson
There’s a lot you can do to help you and your child prepare for their first swim lesson!
Acknowledge Anxiety
It’s natural for your child to feel some nervousness as their first swim lesson nears — and the same goes for you! To help allay your fears, select a swim school that prioritizes safety and that treats kids with kindness and respect.
If you child displays anxiety, encourage them to talk about their fears. Then gently reassure them and let them know their new teacher will keep them safe in the water.
Our Njswim swim teachers understand that anxiety is a common reaction to a new swim school, class, or teacher. We train our team members to identify and respond to this fear with understanding, support, and gentleness.
Come In for a Visit Beforehand
Part of anxiety comes from fear of the unknown. Visiting your swimming school with your child before the day of the first lesson can go a long way in easing anxiety.
Four of our six Njswim schools host Open Family Swim activities for Njswim members and non-members. Attend an Open Family Swim at your school so you can get used to the facility, the pool, and meet some of our team members. We’d love to see you there!
Assure Your Child You’ll Be Watching
Our swim schools have comfortable rooms from which parents can watch their children in the pool. Let your child know you will be cheering them on during swim class.
Here are some additional ways to prepare your toddler for swim lessons.
Tips for Your Child’s First Swim Lesson
The day of the first swim lesson has arrived. Above all, be sure to bring only positive and happy vibes to the pool!
Plan on arriving early so your child has plenty of time to change, use the bathroom, and relax.
Before the lesson starts, remind your child that the team members are all there to help them stay safe—and that they are about to learn a fun new skill. Remind them of the importance to always listen to their teacher.
Once your child is with their teacher, take advantage of our comfortable observation room. Your child will feel better knowing you’re nearby, and you’ll be able to share in their enjoyment of learning something new and fun.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to bring to swimming lessons?
Include a comfortable bathing suit, favorite towel, and swim diaper (if needed—know the swim diaper policy). Your child will likely want goggles. You can purchase all items at each of our six Njswim locations.
What if my child gets scared or starts crying?
Our entire team understands that being in the water with a new swim teacher can be scary. We know we can’t expect your child trust us immediately, but we know how to help your child feel secure and safe. Our deck supervisor or manager are also always available to talk to your child and help calm fears.
If you’re taking part in a Water Babies class, remind yourself that you’re there to learn and have fun. If your baby is fussy and uncooperative, remain calm — this will help your little one calm as well. No one expects perfection from you or your child.
Why does Njswim encourage year-round, weekly 30-minute lessons?
Children who attend year-round swim schools learn swimming and water safety at a faster pace. If they take time off, they lose those skills. Most kids can pay attention for 30 minutes, but when children get tired or lose attention, they no longer focus on proper technique and can develop poor swim habits.
Here are more FAQs from Njswim.
For more information about Njswim New Jersey swim classes, contact us today.
