Being a Good Swimming Parent

What should I bring along to each lesson?

  • Parents swimwear and t-shirt
  • Infants swimwear and nappy change needs
  • Warm clothes to put on after lesson
  • Snack for after the lesson

How can I prepare my child before arriving at swimming lessons?
Your child may not understand but your excitement and anticipation will be strongly felt by them. If you have the opportunity - expose your child to the Centre prior to their first lesson. Also try using the bathtub, shower or pool at home to introduce some of the anticipated activities you will experience. Do not submerse your child and cause stress in any way.

Can we eat before the lesson?
Try to avoid food or drink immediately before any aquatic activity as this may cause your child to get cramps and to feel sick. However, ensure that your child is not hungry when they have their lesson.

What if my child is tired?
If your child usually has nap at your scheduled lesson time, try to rearrange your schedule so that your child is not tired when you attend.

Can we swim before the lesson?
Definitely 'no' - you may overexpose your child which may result in your child becoming reluctant to participate. You may continue to have fun with your child after the lesson or at other times that are appropriate.

How will my child learn?
Games are the basic ingredient of any programme and their repetition helps skills to be learned. Self confidence will develop through practice, enjoyment fun and positive rewards.

Schedule for a possible sleep after the lesson
Parents should realise that after thirty minutes of activity, the child will most likely sleep after their lesson. So be prepared and arrange for this to happen.

Finish on a happy note
It is tempting to stay in the water after the lesson - especially if your infant is having fun, however by leaving whilst the child is happy ensures that the lessons will be remembered as enjoyable.

Be imaginative!
Don't worry if your child gets water on their face, be adventurous and play games.

** The slower you go, the faster and better they learn! **