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You are here: Home / Summer / Swim Lessons – What to expect

Swim Lessons – What to expect

July 22, 2015 By Shann 74 Comments

Swim Lessons

We are on day 2 of swim lessons.  Yesterday went pretty well, and I thought I’d share our experience, in case you’re thinking about swim lessons for your kids. It’s a great skill to have, and so important for their safety.

Why swim lessons are importantTaking 3 to the Pool

 

Both the twins, who are 3, and my oldest, who is 5, are taking lessons. My oldest son took an introductory class (like the twins are taking now,) last summer with my Dad. This year, he is on his own with the instructors. My Dad was actually a little nervous about him not having an adult just with him, so he came along with all of us.

Now, by all of us, I mean we also had our babysitter come with.  For the introductory class, you need one adult per child.  This is a challenge for many parents of twins, but we lucked out finding our babysitter that agreed to come to lessons too.

So, after getting everyone in swim suits (and swim diapers for the twins as we have NOT tackled potty training at all,) packing up towels, fighting over who would ride with Grandpa, we headed to the lessons.  We’re taking swimming through our Park and Recreation Department, and the lessons take place at an outdoor pool not far from our house. I signed us up for the 11:20 am lessons in Mid July, thinking it would have to be warm in Wisconsin by then.  Yesterday was a little overcast, and the water was pretty cold, but today was warm and sunny.

Getting Ready (1)Pool Arrival

(I didn’t get any pictures at the pool because I left all everything in the car.  Plus, I probably would have dropped my phone in the pool.  So, these are the only pictures I have.)

Surprisingly, we arrived early, so we all stood and watched the previous lessons finish up. I think the excitement of going in the water, plus the new surroundings kept everyone in good moods and good behavior.

The instructors took a brief break between lessons, then gathered us all to talk to us about how the program works.  Each instructor introduced themselves, talked about inclement weather, and then showed us where each group would meet each day.

The twins had a very friendly girl, who had been doing lessons for quite a while it seemed.  My oldest son had four instructors for his group, so Grandpa had nothing to worry about. Plus, I could see him from where are groups were situated.

All three had a great time!

What happened in class

We sang Wheels on the Bus (while going in a circle and doing different actions in the water,) If you’re Happy and You know it (same concept,) a boat song (where they get spun around,) lots of kicking, and scooping/paddling.  To help with the scooping and kicking, they got to pick a toy from a bucket, and throw it.  They then were supposed to kick or scoop to it.  We also tried blowing bubbles, but that only resulted in swallowing a lot of water.  To end the class, they got to jump off the side into our arms.  Both twins were a little apprehensive at first, but by the end, both were reaching for our hands and jumping full force.

Grandpa watched my oldest, and said he did great.  They floated on their backs, went underwater, and also did a lot of kicking.

We will be going to lessons every week day for the next two weeks.  I really think by the end they will be very comfortable in the water, and maybe my oldest will be a step closer to swimming.

I forgot to mention a HUGE bonus to swim lessons! Not only do they burn off a lot of energy so they are actually hungry and asking for lunch, but they are super tired for their naps. The twins slept for close to 3 HOURS yesterday!  If that doesn’t make you want to sign your kids up, I don’t know what will.

Have you tried swim lessons with your kids? Did they enjoy them?

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Filed Under: Summer, Summer Activities, Summer fun, Twins Tagged With: adults, babysitter, eating, lifeguards, naps, pool, swim instructors, swim lessons, swimming, swimming pool, Twins, water

Comments

  1. Emilie says

    July 22, 2015 at 7:29 am

    Swimming lessons are also great for your kids’ safety! It’s crazy how many people can’t swin at all!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:13 pm

      Yes! I think it’s so important.

      Reply
  2. Jessica says

    July 22, 2015 at 7:32 am

    I thought about starting lessons for my almost 3 year old. He loves the water but I think I am waiting until next year. I also have a 1 year old so it would have been hard for me to be there with the 3 year old.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:13 pm

      Oh yes, that would be hard. Next year will definitely be easier.

      Reply
  3. Tina Peterson says

    July 22, 2015 at 7:42 am

    Sounds like a fun day for you! Connor almost 8 is taking lessons this year. His mom & I keep trying to talk it up and tell him about jumping off the diving board but he just wont tell us about his lessons & he doesnt want to do the board! Hopefully he’ll stick with it.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:12 pm

      My oldest keeps talking about the diving board too…I think he’s a little scared right now. Hope they both get over it, and have fun.

      Reply
  4. Rebecca Spooner says

    July 22, 2015 at 7:53 am

    Swim lessons are so important for kiddos. One of the best gifts we can teach them! 🙂 Great post! I found you on the inspired BN Promos. Love your blog! 🙂 Rebecca

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:11 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  5. Dayne says

    July 22, 2015 at 8:02 am

    Hope swimming lessons will be a blast! I remember that lessons were the highlight of my summer!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:11 pm

      Awesome! So far, so good!

      Reply
  6. Kristin C says

    July 22, 2015 at 8:35 am

    Cute! Growing up at the beach, I never took swimming lessons. It just kind of happened (with some help from my parents). I love the water and love when people learn to swim and start to enjoy it (hopefully as much as I do!)

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:10 pm

      Yes! We don’t really live near a beach, so the pool is our best option. I think they’re really loving it, and hope it will continue.

      Reply
  7. Stefanie (@LexieLooDylan2) says

    July 22, 2015 at 10:14 am

    I’m so glad lessons are going well! We’re going swimming today, and I’m looking forward to the post-swim nap time!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:09 pm

      Yes, that’s the best! If only I could take one too…

      Reply
  8. Leslie says

    July 22, 2015 at 10:14 am

    Oh how fun! I bet it is a challenge with twins. I’m a twin and I have no idea how my mom did it with me and my brother running around crazy all the time. Haha. I commend you ma’am! I hope the boys continue to enjoy the class.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:09 pm

      Yes, our pool requires one adult per child, so I’m lucky to have help.

      Reply
  9. workingmommagic says

    July 22, 2015 at 10:36 am

    Swimming lessons are so important.. it sounds like your kids did awesome. My son did a few a screamed the entire time. We ended up teaching him ourselves at home. I need to get my daughter lessons!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:08 pm

      I’ve been lucky that the only screams are happy ones so far!

      Reply
  10. Ira says

    July 22, 2015 at 11:02 am

    Amazing post dear!

    Reply
  11. serenemomblog says

    July 22, 2015 at 11:08 am

    That’s so great that they all enjoyed themselves! I’ve been thinking about getting my two into swim lessons. You just convinced me with the whole 3 hours of sleep thing lol!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:07 pm

      Yes! It really tires them out, and usually NOTHING does. Go for it 🙂

      Reply
  12. Lisa Nolan says

    July 22, 2015 at 11:23 am

    What a lucky family! Swim lessons and long naps! We did infant swim, it really helped my son learn to crawl! (He has Down syndrome.) Then he hated large swimming pools for years, until he turned eight, when he insisted on learning how to swim! Now, if only mom would get in the water, she’d lose a few pounds!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:07 pm

      Ha! I think I’m gaining arm strength lifting and catching the twins in the pool. And the naps are the best bonus I could ask for 🙂

      Reply
  13. Jessica says

    July 22, 2015 at 11:52 am

    My goal is to do this with our boys. Mr. 12 has a deep fear of going underwater and if lessons can at least get him comfortable enough not to freak out, I’d be happy.

    Looks like everyone had fun!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:05 pm

      Yes, that’s a great idea to get him comfortable. Thanks for reading!

      Reply
  14. Sara Strand says

    July 22, 2015 at 12:52 pm

    My kids LOVE swim lessons!! Here we can do them through the YMCA, but it ends up cost me $110 per kid for 6 lessons. It’s crazy expensive!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:05 pm

      Wow. That is really expensive. Luckily, our Park and Rec is pretty reasonable.

      Reply
  15. Becky @ Disney in your Day says

    July 22, 2015 at 1:35 pm

    Sounds like a great start to the experience! Glad they seem to be having a good time while learning a really important skill.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:04 pm

      Yes! Thank you!

      Reply
  16. Rae says

    July 22, 2015 at 2:39 pm

    It’s so important to learn good water habits when you’re young. I’m glad you’ve got your kids in lessons instead of them learning bad pool habits from family and friends. I was a swim coach throughout high school and college and the kids that had lessons when they were wee young were the best students. 🙂

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 3:04 pm

      Awesome. So good to hear. Thank you!

      Reply
  17. Cynthia @craftoflaughter says

    July 22, 2015 at 5:01 pm

    What a great time and so important an activity!!!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 6:42 pm

      Yes! Thank you!

      Reply
  18. Alana says

    July 22, 2015 at 6:40 pm

    My daughter did swim lessons before my son was born but I want to get them both in some because they’re at the same level. Only problem is the one parent to one child issue. So hopefully we can find something that works for my hubby. Just for the reason of a longer nap and hungrier appetite alone, it’s worth it. So nice grande joined 🙂

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 6:42 pm

      The adult per child does make it hard. Hope your husband can work it out too. 🙂

      Reply
  19. triciathegoodmama says

    July 22, 2015 at 6:48 pm

    It sounds like you had a great time! We love our swim lessons. I’m not sure what we’ll do once the new baby comes. It’s tough with two! I totally hear you on the tired thing- my son always takes a good nap after swim lessons.

    Reply
  20. reneadijab says

    July 22, 2015 at 7:06 pm

    I just want to say that I agree with others, learning to swim should not be an option a parent decides on like say, taking piano or tap dance… being able to swim – even just enough to save yourself – is a required safety skill like knowing what to do in case of fire or inclement weather. Plus, you miss out on a lot of FUN if you are afraid of the water. Kudos to you for getting them in early!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 9:53 pm

      I totally agree. Thank you!

      Reply
  21. Chelsie says

    July 22, 2015 at 9:26 pm

    I’m glad your kids are getting the opportunity to learn to swim (and you’re getting a break when they nap afterwards)! Win-win!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 9:52 pm

      Yes! Thank you.

      Reply
  22. rachel Mouton says

    July 22, 2015 at 9:46 pm

    Thanks so much for sharing 🙂 I’ve been wanting to put my children in swimming lessons.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 22, 2015 at 9:52 pm

      Thanks for reading .

      Reply
  23. ClaireC says

    July 22, 2015 at 11:07 pm

    Glad you had a good experience! Swim classes are so important and seem like fun!

    Reply
  24. tiarasandtantrums says

    July 23, 2015 at 12:07 am

    swimming lesson are SO important for kiddos! My youngest daughter WILL not partake in lessons – she HATES to have her face wet. We have spent a fortune trying to get her to swim!

    Reply
  25. Jonathan Key says

    July 23, 2015 at 12:10 am

    Swimming is important for any kid to learn. Both for the fun aspect and safety aspect. Love the pictures! Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 23, 2015 at 7:07 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  26. Curtis Joseph says

    July 23, 2015 at 12:53 am

    Swimming is such an important skill to know! it can be a very good survival one as well, I think everyone should learn to swim.

    Reply
  27. Jason Young says

    July 23, 2015 at 4:58 am

    My kid loves the pool but he’s too young for swim lessons just yet. We’ll be getting there soon.

    Reply
  28. Ourfamilyworld says

    July 23, 2015 at 4:58 am

    Sounds like they’re having a great time. My kids always came home spent, too when they had their swimming lessons.

    Reply
  29. Elizabeth O. says

    July 23, 2015 at 5:00 am

    I enrolled my kids to swimming lessons, too as soon as they were ready. I think it’s important that they learn this.

    Reply
  30. Megan VW says

    July 23, 2015 at 9:54 am

    How fun! Swim lessons are so great. I really need to get my kids signed up in the winter.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 23, 2015 at 9:42 pm

      Yes! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

      Reply
  31. pbpearls says

    July 23, 2015 at 10:08 am

    Swim lessons are important. My daughter and I did swim lessons when she was 8 months old (she’s two now) and we’re doing them again. Thanks for posting this!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 23, 2015 at 9:42 pm

      Thanks for reading!

      Reply
  32. Jeanine says

    July 23, 2015 at 10:25 am

    Sounds like a great time! My kids did summer lessons last year, and this year with our move coming up we didn’t get them in it but we plan to this winter. I think its super important!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 23, 2015 at 9:41 pm

      It is. Thank you!

      Reply
  33. sicorra says

    July 23, 2015 at 2:01 pm

    Swimming lessons at such a young age is a wonderful idea. It helps them grow and be comfortable around water instead of afraid of it. I have met a number of adults who, when they were kids, their parents were too afraid of water themselves so as kids they didn’t learn how to swim. And then as adults they were afraid to go anywhere near a swimming pool or lake.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 23, 2015 at 9:41 pm

      Yes. Thank you.

      Reply
  34. Happily Ever After Etc. says

    July 23, 2015 at 2:26 pm

    Looks like they’re having a great time! I can remember swim lessons being so much fun as a kid!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 23, 2015 at 9:39 pm

      Yes, they love it. 🙂

      Reply
  35. The Pink Caboodle says

    July 23, 2015 at 2:43 pm

    I was just talking to someone about kids taking swim lessons the other day. Great way to keep them safe throughout the summer fun…

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 23, 2015 at 9:39 pm

      Yes! Thanks for reading. 🙂

      Reply
  36. Jaclyn Kent says

    July 23, 2015 at 5:01 pm

    How wonderful! It sounds like y’all had an amazing time! I want to get my son into some lessons, too, but I’ve been a bit nervous. :X

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 23, 2015 at 9:38 pm

      I was nervous too, but it’s been really great.

      Reply
  37. sacha says

    July 23, 2015 at 5:25 pm

    Hey, is my fav online twins! glad you are showing them how to swim. This is so important, and I know your oldest son is loving the experience.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 23, 2015 at 9:38 pm

      Thanks Sacha! 🙂

      Reply
  38. M from The Stay-at-Home Life says

    July 23, 2015 at 8:20 pm

    I need to look into swim lessons for my daughter.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 23, 2015 at 9:36 pm

      Yes! So important!

      Reply
  39. Holly @ Woman Tribune says

    July 24, 2015 at 8:27 am

    So great all the kids had a successful first day at their swim lessons. Learning how to swim young is so important, and could potentially help save their lives one day. Great job to them!

    Reply
  40. almostsexymommy says

    July 24, 2015 at 12:32 pm

    Great post! We never got swimming lessons for the kids because some of our relatives have pools and we always just taught them ourselves. Then they had to get them in kindergarten thru 3rd grade at school on top of that (they teach them as part of gym class) so my kids are great swimmers 🙂 You’re right though, nothing hungrier or sleepier than a kid that’s been in a pool!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      July 24, 2015 at 9:06 pm

      Yes! Best added benefit!

      Reply
  41. DoingDewey says

    July 24, 2015 at 5:28 pm

    How fun! I didn’t love swim team in high school, but I have fond memories of learning how to swim 🙂

    Reply
  42. Victoria says

    July 26, 2015 at 7:53 am

    My boys love playing in the pool. I hope next year all of them will be old enough to take swimming lessons together.

    Reply
  43. caitlincheevers says

    July 27, 2015 at 12:49 pm

    I struggled with swimming so much growing up. I’m glad your boys are taking to it! 🙂
    xo, Caitlin
    And Possibly Dinosaurs

    Reply

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Shann Hi! I'm a mom, writer, and dancer. I love sharing my parenting experiences, my healthy living tips, my money saving ideas, and our travel plans. My passion to help other women inspired this blog. I hope you'll stay a while and come back often.

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