I am afraid of the water, but want my child to learn so they are not frightened.  Can someone else take them in the water?

Having someone else teach your baby is fine, although you will be missing out on sharing a very special experience that can last a lifetime. The hardest decision you will make is admitting to your fear of the water. 

The next will be making a call to book for lessons. Letting the teacher know you are nervous is imperative so they can work close with you either one on one or in a group, to help you address and overcome your fears so you can join in lessons with your baby. Remember the water is only your enemy when you are afraid of it.  It can be your best friend if you are relaxed.

If I put my child in lessons as a baby will he be a champion swimmer when he is older?

Like any developmental stage in a child's life, no two children are exactly the same.   Some babies walk before others, others swim before walking!   Starting lessons early will not guarantee an Olympic champion, however, your child will learn to love and respect the water, along with developing much needed skills for later in life.

We are going on a holiday in a few months and want our child to be a good swimmer so they are safe.

No child, or adult, is ever 100% 'water proof' or 'drown proof'. It is important that parents do not believe that because their child can swim or has lessons they are 100% safe in the water.  Never leave your child unsupervised, even for the shortest period of time - 30 seconds is all it takes for a child to become unconscious.

Having lessons does help to reduce the 'risk' associated with drowning, as a relaxed child who is used to going underwater or jumping in is less likely to panic in an unexpected situation. As teachers we try to educate you and your child about the water to minimise the risk involved, this includes preparing children to expect the unexpected in a controlled environment. Time frames cannot be set. The learning process for swimming - as with any sport - is ongoing and will remain that way into their adult lives.

What can I do at home to start the learning process?

Start by making bath time a 'fun time' rather than a daily chore. Bright toys, squeaky toys, buckets and balls all make bath time fun. Remember you want your child to be relaxed and enjoy their water time as much as possible.

Don't be afraid of getting baby's ears and face wet. It is OK if they slip under the water accidentally try (as hard as it is) not to panic. Instead give baby a hug and continue the bath as normal.  Be sure to always let them know before pouring any water over their face.   Bathing with your child is great too, as is showering. This not only makes cleaning baby easier; it is a great bonding and relaxing time.

My child is 5 years old and petrified of the water. Is it too late for him to learn?

It's never too late to learn.  Remember you both need to be ready to attend the lessons.    Be patient, he may just want to watch the first lesson. The child needs to know he can trust the teacher before getting in.  There may be some tears at first and the teacher will work with him to relax in the water.  Remember all children are different and will progress at their own rate. Try to talk about any concerns your child may have and encourage him to ask or tell the teacher too.  Having him understand you acknowledge what the teacher says will help him build his trust and in turn confidence.

Water really is wonderful and gives parents, children and siblings alike a whole New World to discover together.   So if you are deciding whether or not to enrol in lessons, remember it is totally your decision. There is no exact time to start lessons nor can anyone make you go.  When you do start to learn and you experience the joys and freedom of water, with your child, it will certainly be well worth the anticipation and effort.

No matter what age you start your child at lessons, you have made the right decision.   You have given him the opportunity to explore, enjoy and respect his new found skills in this magical watery environment we are so lucky to have.