Getting Passed Meltdown Dillemmas

We know the story. Kids, get cranky, and sometimes they choose the moments before swim lessons to get upset or throw a temper tantrum.

We get it. Getting through your child's swimming lesson with your sanity intact can be rough.

We know all parents have been there, and since we’ve been in this business for a while, we’ve seen our fair share of pre-swimming meltdowns. The good news however, is it will stop. And we have some Do’s and Don’ts for coaching your swimmer to prevent them from happening.

Do’s

Stay Inside- After trust has been established with your child and the swim instructor, we recommend staying out of your child’s sight. Find a place where you can see your child, but they can’t see you. This will prevent your child from wanting to be in your arms or near you during swim lessons.

Encourage- Express to your child that swim lessons are fun. Once they adjust to the new experience they will be more than excited with proper positive encouragement.

Practice- This is important no matter what, but if your child is having meltdowns because they are frustrated, it is important to make sure they are practicing their new swim skills. This can be done in the pool with a parent or in the bathtub depending on the child’s size. As the old saying goes, “Practice makes Perfect”!

Recognition- If you child does something great during lessons, or has a positive attitude congratulate them on their behavior or attitude. They will not only love that they are being encouraged, they will understand that they did something great, and will want to continue learning!

Don’t

Be Anxious – If you have fear of the water yourself, don’t instill this fear in your child. Try and be as positive as possible and have a positive attitude. Children will pick up on your feelings and tone.

Cancel Swim Lessons- We know parenting can be tough. But the worst thing a parent can do is get so frustrated they cancel swim lessons because you, the child or both of you are frustrated. Swimming is a necessary life skill and most children’s frustration/attitude improve after the 3rd or 4th lesson.

Negotiate- This is also known as bribery. Engaging in any type of negotiation of bribery with your child regarding swim lessons will contribute to a negative feeling towards the water, swimming and the entire process.

We hope this helps give your child the optimal chance at learning life saving skills and a fun overall learning experience that will be with them for a lifetime!