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Understanding the Three Stages of Swimming

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Superhero Swim Academy’s mission is to spark imagination and creativity through swim lessons. This article is for parents to have a deeper knowledge of swimming expectations for children, and better communicate to coaches their child's swim lessons needs.




Swimming is defined as the act of moving through water using the arms and legs, but for many children, it’s much more than just a physical activity—it’s an emotional rollercoaster that requires time, patience, and gradual progression, such as learning a musical instrument or a subject in the classroom. As a parent, understanding the three stages of swimming—comfortability, safety, and proficiency—can help set realistic expectations and foster a positive experience for your child.



Stage 1: Comfortability




Before any real swimming instruction can take place, a child must feel comfortable in the water. This is especially crucial when introducing infants to swim lessons. Early exposure can significantly reduce the chances of developing a fear of water later on. For older children, particularly those who may be fearful, starting swim lessons at age three can be a challenge. During the comfortability stage, expect some resistance. It’s common for young children to experience anxiety, especially when separated from a parent, surrounded by a new environment, or working with a swim coach they don’t know. You might witness blood-curdling screams and tantrums during the first few lessons, but it’s important to remember that this is part of the process. This phase may feel slow, and at times painful. You may find your child kicking and screaming being supported while floating back, having water poured over their head, or being submerged briefly. While it can be hard to watch, this discomfort is a necessary step toward building confidence. Just like quicksand, panic in the water can lead to exhaustion. Calmness fosters buoyancy, making it essential for your child to become at ease in the pool. We have seen firsthand by lifeguarding the summer swim program at The Learning Nest Preschool in Plantation Florida, that the kids who came and got in the water each day for the full summer gained a comfort level to surpass the beginning levels of our swim program. Stage

 

2: Safety: 





Once your child has established a level of comfort, the next focus is on safety. This stage involves teaching essential skills that will help your child navigate water confidently and securely. Important lessons include jumping into the water and swimming to the nearest exit, floating, climbing out of the pool safely, and swimming out and rolling over for a breath. Additionally, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of never swimming alone, reinforcing that a buddy system or adult supervision is always necessary. Teaching safety skills to young children can be challenging, particularly because their attention spans are short, and their understanding of risk may be limited. However, reinforcing these skills in a fun and engaging manner can make a significant difference. Use games and play to help your child practice safety techniques. When they’re comfortable and know what to do, and their confidence will increase.


Stage 3: Proficiency: 





The final stage of swimming is proficiency. At this point, your child will be introduced to swimming strokes, starting with freestyle, with the goal of swimming from one side of the pool to the other with movement in both arms and feet, taking breaths in-between. Proficiency involves refining their strokes, increasing endurance, and becoming familiar with various swimming techniques. Children new to this stage are usually more excited about swimming, and you’ll notice that they begin to take more initiative in the water. Encouraging them to practice regularly and perhaps introducing them to swim teams or classes can further enhance their skills.


When to Take a Break from Swim Lessons: Expect children will get stuck at one of the stages during the process. When this happens, it is a sign that it is time for a break. Common signs to take a break include; children get agitated easier during lessons, lose interest, resist going to lessons, or are too young to move on to the next skill level. Make sure to talk with your swim provider first on the issue. When needed a two-to-four-month break can make all the difference in your child’s ability to pick up on the skill or advancing to the next level when they return.



Getting a child to swim; the act of moving through water using the arms and legs, is a process that unfolds over time, not an overnight sensation. By understanding these three stages—comfortability, safety, and proficiency—you can better support your child on their swimming journey with a better understanding of knowing what to expect. While the initial stages may be tough, your dedication and patience will pay off, leading to a confident swimmer who enjoys the water safely. Remember, every child learns at their own pace, so keep the focus on progress, not perfection.








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