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How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Swim Lesson

You’ve enrolled your child in the best swim class, and the countdown to their first lesson has begun. As this exciting milestone approaches, you want to ensure everything goes smoothly and that your child feels confident and prepared.

To help ease any nerves and make the experience enjoyable, we’ve put together a list of must-dos to get ready for their big day. Read on for helpful tips!

Know the Flow of Your Child’s First Swim Lesson

Before your child plunges into the pool, it helps to understand how their first class would go. Here’s what to expect from your little one’s first swimming lesson:

  1. Everyone gets a warm welcome to the pool, helping your child relax and prepare for their lesson.
  2. Students meet their teacher who’s qualified to conduct lessons based on their specific needs. A positive relationship between you and your child’s teacher builds trust and makes learning more enjoyable.
  3. Most initial swim lessons begin in the shallower end of the pool in a shorter swim lane. Your child will learn how to get comfortable in the water, practice basic floating, and adjust to their current environment.
  4. Swim teachers also teach critical water safety rules and guidelines during a child’s first swim lesson. It helps your child learn to swim safely.
  5. Your child’s first swim lesson is their first step to learning essential self-rescue skills at their own pace. Their teacher ensures they’ll learn one skill at a time to mold them into confident, skilled swimmers.
  6. Swim teachers will motivate your child to master key techniques. The best ones create a positive and supportive environment for effective lessons.
  7. Finally, your child’s teacher may summarize their lesson and give them some practice exercises to support their learning.

Make Your Little One Feel Ready to Learn

It’s also important to mentally prepare your child for their first swimming lesson. Start by talking about swimming at home. Tell your child about the pool and everything that awaits them, including fun games and new friends.

If your child is afraid of the water, acknowledge their fear and offer reassurance. Let your little ones know that a skilled teacher will help them learn and keep them safe. Also, tell them you’ll be at their side during the lesson.

Your attitude determines how your child feels about swimming. Show them how confident you are with the safety and benefit of their lessons and how fun the water is to you.

Prepare the Essentials

Swim lessons aren’t complete without these essentials for a safe, comfortable plunge.

Swimwear

Choose comfortable swimwear in the right size and made from chlorine-resistant materials. Skip those with excess fabric or accessories that can restrict movement.

Goggles 

Goggles keep chlorine from entering your child’s eyes and help them feel comfortable while swimming. While we encourage kids to learn to swim without goggles, we often see students asking for them in their first lessons.

Towel & Warm Clothes

Remember to pack a towel and warm clothes in your child’s bag, too. Bring warm and wearable clothes to lessons. We always recommend a second set of clothes in the chillier months so you can layer as needed.

Snacks & Water

Swimming works the whole body and uses a lot of energy. Pack a small snack (think a banana or a cereal bar) to boost your child’s energy and water to keep them hydrated. And if you forget, every Bear Paddle school offers free popcorn for families!

Other Accessories

Besides common swimming essentials, consider taking these accessories to your child’s first swimming lesson.

  • Shampoo and soap or shower gel if you prefer your own
  • Hair binders
  • Swim diapers for infant swim lessons

Arrive Early

The day has finally come—it’s time for your child to swim! Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before the lesson starts to ease your little one’s nerves. You can use the extra time to take your child around the school and meet their teacher.

Explore the School

A school tour can help your child adjust to the new environment and reduce anxiety. Show them the pool and the area where you’ll watch them swim (if the school has one for parents). If you have extra time, we have coloring sheets and activities to keep them busy.

Meet Your Child’s teacher

Students and teachers usually meet in the pool. But if you have enough time before classes start, meeting your child’s teacher is a good idea. This will create a positive relationship and make your little one feel comfortable so they can learn to swim confidently.

Come to Your Child’s First Swim Lesson Prepared

Swimming lessons offer a great learning experience in a welcoming, supportive environment. However, your child may find the water scary, keeping them from mastering new skills and having fun. This makes preparation key to comfortable and safe swims.

For more helpful tips and updates on swimming lessons, visit the Bear Paddle blog today.