SHOPPING FOR LESSONS:

• Look for a pool with a high ratio of instructors to students, as well as instructors skilled in working with kids.

• Look for a pool that provides a non-threatening environment, emphasizes fun, and doesn’t force skills such as dunking or jumping off the diving board.

• Find out how instructors engage reluctant swimmers.

Interaction should be positive and fun.

• Ask whether instructors allow goggles. For some kids, goggles can make all the difference for going underwater.

WHEN LESSONS BEGIN:

• Prepare your child for lessons by describing what to expect (check the pool’s website or talk with instructors in advance).

• Allow your child to interact with the instructor without hovering to distract her (but don’t force separation).

• Keep in mind that not all kids progress at the same rate. It’s normal for kids to repeat lessons at the same level multiple times and then suddenly leap ahead.

• Try private lessons if your child isn’t progressing due to the group setting or her own fear. Some kids experience performance anxiety in a group and do better in a one-on-one scenario.

• For age 6 and under, take time off between sessions to avoid burn out.

For age guidelines on lessons, talk to the pool staff or refer to their website for recommendations but keep in mind each child’s individuality. My daughter was one of the oldest children in her level primarily because she wasn’t willing at a younger age to follow directions.

Most importantly, keep it light and fun. Once your child gets past his reluctance, he will be splashing across the pool with the rest of the kids.

Joanna Nesbit has stopped worrying about whether her kids like swimming or not, as long as they can swim. Read more of her work at www.joannanesbit.com.

First published in Colorado Parent magazine, a Dominion Parenting Media publication.