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What if my baby or toddler doesn’t like swimming lessons?

What if my baby or toddler doesn’t like swimming lessons?

Parents often come to the first swimming lessons telling me that their child loves the water, and that this should be a breeze! Then, five minutes later when we are getting ready to begin, the tears flow and crying ensues. Screaming, crying, throwing a fit – I’ve seen it all! Rest assured, if your child is crying during the first couple of lessons, this behavior is completely normal.

toddler crying in the pool

In fact, I was the same exact way. I would cry the night before, the morning of, and right before my lessons. It’s a wonder my parents made it through that stage! My parents always joke about my beginnings in the water, and the irony they haven’t been able to get me out since – almost 22 years later!

For some kids, the feeling of being in a completely new environment, trying something new, and being away from their parents is too much newness at one time. And that is totally understandable! I do have good news for all of your parents out there who are dealing with this issue – it will stop after about four or five lessons.

It is worth being said, though, that each child develops water confidence at their own rate. That being said, if your child is still crying after quite a few lessons, we have some tips and tricks you can try to make the lessons a more pleasant experience for your child, the instructor, and yourself.


Some Tips if Your Baby Cries during Swim Lessons

Don’t be too present in the lessons. If your pool has an observation room, go there and watch from afar. Staying with your child during the lesson will hinder their experience, and by staying out of sight, you are teaching your child to trust the instructor more.

baby float pool

Of course, while mentioning ideas of what to do, we should also mention some ideas of what not to do.


Swimming lessons can be a big step for your child, and the transition for some may be much easier than for others. It is important to be patient with your child, and to encourage them that they are doing a good job, no matter how long the process is taking. It can be hard to see the benefits of swimming lessons if your child is having a hard time, but they are still improving with each lesson!

At Sunsational Swim School, our private swimming instructors have experience teaching children as young as infants all the way through adults. We have seen it all, from tears and fear of the water, to those who can’t wait to dive in. Book your lessons at your home or community pool today to give your child the gift of swimming – you won’t regret it!


Olivia Darr’s bio:

Swim Instructor in Columbia, SC

Hi! My name is Olivia and I've been teaching swimming lessons for over two years now. I've worked with children for a number of years. My experience includes: Boys & Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the swim team I coach for. I just graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in August 2018 with a degree in communications and marketing. I love teaching swimming because I love helping kids become comfortable in the water and helping them become more confident!

ABOUT SUNSATIONAL SWIM SCHOOL

Sunsational Swim School is the 🥇 #1 rated provider of private, at-home swimming lessons in America. We have specialized swim instructors for students ages 6 months to adult, beginner to advanced. Featured on ABC, CBS, Impact 100, The List and others, Sunsational instructors have a minimum of 2 years of teaching experience, are CPR certified and insured, and have collectively taught over 302,223 lessons for more than 74,415 students nationwide!

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