Fall brings a season of new beginnings. Kids are involved in all kinds of new things such as school, sports, or new clubs. Having a lot of firsts can be very emotionally draining on children so its helpful to prepare them in whatever ways possible. For example, things like new student orientation or meet and greets with a new teacher can be crucial in making that first day at school more enjoyable. But what about swim lessons? For those new swimmers out there or even those who have been on break for a while a first day survival guide might be helpful. Here we will tackle just a few ways to make that first day (or day back) a much more pleasant and enjoyable experience.
Before the lesson start with a prep talk: its always a good idea to talk through the swimming process, possibly share your own swimming story with your child. This is especially good for your older children.
Show up early: Its always a good idea to be early on that first day to allow time to get acclimated to the new environment and watch other swimmers and parents interact with the staff. If you have a hesitant swimmer this can be a great time for them to see all the fun the other kids are having. We also allow kids to play on the ramp 15 minutes before their lesson which can be great for a child to get used to the water.
Make sure the child is well rested: Its not a great idea to schedule your childs lesson during their usual nap time. This will lead to a rough start from the beginning (especially your younger children). Best to find a time when your child will be well rested and ready for lessons. Its also a good idea to have a light snack before lessons so that your child is not to hungry before or after, good for energy as well.
Equipment: There are several items to think about bringing before you leave for lessons all making that first day go better: A towel, Swim diaper (for those under 4), change of clothes, Swimsuit, fins (if you have your own), goggles (a good idea to purchase your own, speeds up lesson prep time), All your registration paper work, a smile 
.
Talk with your instructor: When you sign up for lessons with WFSS you will be developing a relationship with your instructor. Its important on that first day to chat with them and get to know them a little bit. Allow your child time to talk with them as well, and younger children high five. If your instructor has any advise on how to make the lesson go smoother be sure to listen, they are very experience and know what they are doing, most likely they have seen just about every situation you can think of.
Allow for play time after lesson: We allow 15 minutes of ramp play time after lesson. This is a great time for your child to relax and play with some of toys and just enjoy being in the water.
Lastly relax: Your children will pick up on how you are feeling about the situation so just relax and enjoy being with your child in this new experience. Remember any questions you have about lessons or payment or anything else can be answered by our front dest attendant so don’t hesitate to ask.
Swimming is a gift for life and a journey for your child that we look forward to partaking in. We love watching kids grow and progress along this journey and have seen so many children grow and progress in our program. We are so glad you are with us and look forward to working with you for many years to come.
wendyferedayswimschool
