Spring Swimming

Spring is a very busy time for everyone. The weather gets nicer, we all start to get out a little more, and with that first day in a t-shirt, we all start to think about the summer. With summer just around the corner, Spring is also an excellent time to get your children in the pool for swimming lessons before the season starts.

We believe there are three critical success factors in aquatic education. First, the program should incorporate safety behaviors into the curriculum so children can learn responsible conduct in and around water. Summer is the quintessential season for swimming, but also because it is the season when children are most likely to swim unsupervised or without the benefit of a life-guard. Second, a successful swimming program must teach all of the basic swimming strokes and skills. Because children learn skill sets best through repetition, it is advantageous for them to have as much time as possible in the water to learn, practice and apply their newly acquired skills. Third, involving parents and caregivers in the education process is essential, particularly early on, so they too can learn effective methods of working with their children as well as understanding their level of competency.

Just like learning to catch a ball, shoot a basket, run the bases or conquer the five positions of ballet, it takes time to learn to blow bubbles, balance o front and back float, or master an advanced stroke. Swimming require dedication and time not simply because repetition induces muscle memory and skill development, but also because for the mental hurdles and skill progression inherent in swimming. For these reasons, the first few sessions are committed to breaking and/or regaining ground. By starting now, you can prepare your kids for swimming safely and confidently, whether at a swimming pool, in summer camp, or on the beach.

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