Some parents ask us what they can do improve their child’s swimming. The simple answer? Take them swimming for fun! Significantly, exposure to swimming pools and water can improve their skills. While it may seem obvious, many underestimate this, assuming that a single 30-minute swimming lesson each week suffices.
For Young Children
Utilize bath time as an opportunity to practice aquatic breathing, a fundamental skill for swimming. Encourage blowing bubbles underwater to familiarise them with this essential technique.
For non-swimmer
Begin gently with children who are hesitant about getting their faces wet. Start by pouring water over their shoulders, ears, and gradually onto their heads during bath time. Teach them to blow out as the water comes towards their faces, similar to blowing through a straw. Gradually introduce blowing with lips slightly touching the water. Utilize small plastic balls or other toys to aid in learning to blow bubbles.
Some children dislike water touching their faces. Please refrain from wiping it away. Let them know that it’s not scary and doesn’t hurt. Over time, they will forget the fear and become accustomed to the sensation on their faces.
For children UNafraid of water on their faces:
For All Children:
Encourage various underwater activities such as demonstrating different bubble techniques from the mouth and nose. Engage them in underwater games like guessing which bubble-blowing technique is being used. Ensure they have the basics mastered before the game begins.
For All Children:
Regularly taking children swimming for leisure is the most supportive action parents can take to enhance their progress. Just as reading proficiency doesn’t improve solely from 30 minutes of reading each week, the same holds for other activities. More time spent in the water directly correlates to better skills and increased confidence. It’s not necessary to focus on skill instruction; simply splashing around and enjoying time together can make a remarkable difference. Activities like fetching sinkers, swimming between legs, and making funny faces underwater not only improve swimming but also strengthen family bonds.