This is going to be short and sweet, I just want to give you a little snippet of my personal experience with swim lessons.
My son, Miles, is 18 months and just finished swim lessons. I have a friend who gives in-home lessons so she just comes to my grandparents house (they have a pool) and gives one on one lessons there. It’s the perfect setup. And Miles loves her, which def helps.
Expectations
I can’t lie though, my expectations for swim lessons were NOT quite reality. I was anticipating a fun little party. I invited my parents, and my sisters were there because their littles also took lessons, I even thought about inviting my in-laws!
But you guys. I feel obligated to tell you that swim lessons may not be the party you hoped for (lol). I feel like no one talks about them. Or maybe everyone else’s kids just love them?! (Give me your feedback!!) But none of the kids in our fam do. Day 3 of swim lessons Miles cried when I asked him if he was excited to swim (tear tear). It actually has been one of my least favorite things I’ve had to do as a mom. I’m being dramatic. But also so serious. Seeing your precious babe cry is hard. It’s so sad to put your child through something you know they don’t love. But in the long run, I want Miles to know how to swim!! And to know what to do if he ever (I pray never) falls into a pool.
It honestly feels like disciplining your child. It’s no fun to do in the moment, but you know in the long run it will be so good for them. And they’ll love you for it!
Think Future
I guess I’m writing this as a little pep talk to you and to myself. To make sure you aren’t going in blind to swim lessons (like I was) but also to encourage you that even though it’s hard, you can do it!!
I will give you a glimmer of hope – the first day was the worst. Miles cried on and off most of the lesson. The second and third day were definitely better. He resisted getting into the pool, but once he was in, he did better!! A couple tears, but at one point I actually thought he might be having fun. We did have to sit inside the house because if he saw any family member near the pool (especially me) he was a puddle. Day four and five, actually fun!! We were able to sit outside and watch him swim (breakthrough). And he was totally performing for us. As long as we clapped for everything he did, he was very happy. The teacher brought toys for him to play with every day and he loved them. He still talks about them.
He even received a little report card at the end and did so well! (I’m translating it as an A+). It was helpful for us to have some practical, actionable things we can continue to work on with him in the pool.
My Answer
So yes, in my opinion, I think all kids should do some form of swim lessons for their long term benefit. Even in exchange for a little short term pain. We both grew through the experience. Miles (mostly) conquered his fear of lessons, and improved so much! I think it built his confidence. I learned to let go ( a little). Just a small taste of what it’s going to be like to let go of my precious boy as he continues to grow up and be independent.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on swim lessons!! Are you for or against them? Have your kids done them yet? Are you planning to sign them up? Tell me everything!
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