Swimming is a fun and healthy activity—especially for children. However, getting started in the pool can be a bit intimidating for some. As a parent, it's important to help your child feel confident and comfortable in the water, whether they are just starting to learn or are looking to improve their skills.

Read on to learn five ways you can help your child gain confidence in the swimming pool!

 

Let Them Control the Pace

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to mastering swimming and feeling comfortable in the swimming pool. While some children are eager to jump in and start learning new strokes, others may be hesitant to leave the side of the pool.

It’s important to respect your child’s needs and comfort levels while you’re getting started. Let your child set the pace and learn at a level they are comfortable with. Acknowledging and creating a safe space for your child to work through their fears or hesitations will help them become more confident and better enjoy all the fun swimming has to offer!

 

Be Confident in the Water Yourself

Children often look to their parents for guidance and example—especially in new situations. Because of this, it’s important to show your child how comfortable and confident you are in the swimming pool.

If you’re feeling anxious or nervous, your child will likely feel the same. You being calm and self-assured in the water will help them feel safe and protected as they work through the new experience.

If you’re looking to improve your own skills and confidence in the water before swimming with your child, spend some more time at a local pool or sign up for adult swim lessons.

 

Make it Fun

Making the process fun can be one of the best ways to help your child build confidence in the water!

Playing swimming pool games can combine fun with learning the practical skills necessary for safely maneuvering through the water. By making the experience enjoyable, you can help them associate swimming with positive feelings that will make them want to come back for more!

 

Encourage and Celebrate Successes

Becoming confident in the water can be a challenging and daunting process for a child—so taking the time to encourage their progress is important to keep them motivated!

Celebrating your child’s victories—no matter how small—can have a lasting impact on how your child views spending time in the water. Positive reinforcement will help build their confidence and encourage them to continue practicing and improving their skills in the swimming pool.

 

Sign Them Up for Swim Lessons

Swim lessons are a great way to build your child’s confidence in the water! Swim programs give your child the opportunity to work with a trained professional in a safe and monitored environment. After learning important skills such as floating, treading water, and basic strokes, your child will be able to confidently and independently maneuver through the water.

At the Lafayette Family YMCA, we offer a variety of swim lesson programs designed for children of all ages and skill levels—including preschool, youth, teen, parent/child classes, and more! Our experienced instructors work with children to help them master new skills and develop their abilities—all while emphasizing safety, fun, and individualized instruction.

 

Learning how to swim doesn’t have to be an intimidating experience for you or your child. By building their confidence in the swimming pool, you can help your child develop a love of swimming that will last a lifetime!

The Lafayette Family YMCA is a community dedicated to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, or visit our website here.