There are plenty of ways to make the most of your child’s swim lessons with The Aqua Life, all the while achieving optimal swimming abilities and lifesaving skills. As a parent, whether you signed up for the lessons on your own, or if your kids asked you specifically, here are just some ways to make it a positive experience for everyone.

Make it fun!

There’s no question that your little one should be focused and pay close attention to his or her swim instructor, but it’s also important to make it fun and engaging for them. As any parent knows, there has to be a balance between structure and fun for children. Let them be playful … you’re only a kid once, so have fun! A great tip is to let your swim instructor know if there are any special characters or hobbies they can talk about in the water to incorporate and motivate your child. If they are having fun, they are more likely to put in more effort and look forward to their next class.

Be sure not to restrict water experiences solely to swim lessons when it comes to the water. Have fun with water tables, kiddie pools, hot tubs, at home pools and in the lake at the cottage. Even bath time can be a fun water experience and the more you expose your child to water in whatever format, the less fear there will be later, if there’s any at all.

Be their biggest cheerleader!

We all need feedback and encouragement when we’re learning new skills. Praise from their biggest cheerleaders (their parents, grandparents or whoever is taking them to swimming) is a game changer. Be their greatest ambassador and cheer them on through the fun times and the tough times. That in itself will bring on some motivation and eagerness to try that much more and continue to improve in the water. Try to be patient and not compare them to other children since all kids progress in swimming at they own pace, just like other life skills. Your child needs to take their own time to master these essential lifesaving skills. If time and means allow, you can always continue practicing on your off days, because as they say, “practice makes perfect” and positivity is key!

Consistency is key!

We get it … there are times when you as a parent are simply too busy, or have other plans and can’t make it. Sometimes your little one just doesn’t feel like going or maybe even you don’t as well. Life happens but we strongly encourage consistency in attending your swim lessons. Skipping a lesson here and there only hinders your child’s performance. It’s the same as school, try your best not to miss any lessons if you can help it!

Keeping with consistency, you can always sign up for our intensive courses offered throughout the year and don’t be shy to ask for a makeup class if you do have to miss.

Avoid time wasters!

We want you to get the full swim experience, and you want the best bang for your buck. Every minute wasted is one less minute in the pool for your child’s lesson. Make sure to arrive at our facilities with your child’s swim gear underneath their clothes and ready to go! Also ensure your child showers at home to minimize time onsite. Arriving a few minutes early and ready to go can give them time to build up some excitement to get into the water, and especially when they see what’s going on in the class before them. Another important reminder, always remember to wait for your instructor to invite you into the pool before heading in for your lesson.

With these tips in mind, feel free to contact us to get your swim lessons started. We are happy to answer any questions you have, and discuss a swim plan for your child to help them flourish like a little fish in the water!