08 Dec 2022
Get Started At Home
Since Covid-19 back in 2020, our waiting list has been growing to a point where families could be waiting 6-10 months for a regular space. To help decrease our waiting list and getting swimmers progressing quicker, we have created a list of top tips to jump start their water confidence before their first lesson. Please see our top tips to ensure new swimmers can get the most out of their lessons as soon as they become available.
1. Get a Pair of Goggles For The Bath
First, find a pair of goggles that your swimmer is comfortable with. Once found, get them to regularly practice with them on in the bath and shower, this will help them become more familiar with wearing them before their lessons. We want to encourage water around the eyes and face in bath time as overcoming the fear of water going on the face and head is one of the biggest barriers in learning to swim.
2. Go For Fun Family Swims
We recommend going for a family swim regularly, as it is a great way for swimmers to get ready for lessons and spend some time with their families! These sessions don’t need to be structured or include any teaching; simply having a play and realising that the water is fun will make learning to swim a lot easier.
3. Practice Blowing Bubbles
Now that they are comfortable wearing goggles, swimmers can practice blowing bubbles with their eyes in the water. To avoid choking we recommend blowing bubbles out of the mouth and nose, as this will stop any water going up their nose and limit the amount of water in their mouths.
Another great thing to practice at bath time, is to lie down with their ears in the water. This also a massive help and gets them ready for swimming on their back. For more details of our beginner classes and what they work towards, please see our Stage 1 Criteria.
4. Showers and Water Over Head
Start off by sprinkling handfuls of water over your swimmers head, this is to help them feel more comfortable over time with water over their faces and hair (you will thank us later).
You can then progress to pouring a jug, watering can or bath time soft toys. We also recommend alternating between showers and baths to ensure they are used to the different sensations and are less likely to be afraid of splashes.
5. Practice Kicking Legs
Finally, we encourage beginners to make small splashes with straight legs and floppy feet in the bath. This is the key to successful swimming and introduction to the basics of our beginner lessons. These can be practiced sat in the bath or on the sofa with feet dangling off.
Video Blog
To learn more about our top tips, view our video.
One-off Private Lesson
If you would like to book a one-off Private Lessson, please keep an eye on our last minute booking page.
