Back to the pool, we go!

So, we’ve had a few months out of the pool and if you’re feeling well, you may be heading back to training or lessons shortly. After a break, you and the kids might be feeling a bit rusty or anxious about how much they may have regressed. Here’s how you can help prepare for your return to swimming.

1) Don’t forget your positive attitude! If you have kids that are hesitant to return or unsure about what to expect, in the lead up to your return to the pool make sure that you talk about swimming positively and help them get excited! It is especially important not to spring it on them unexpectedly - once you know you are heading back to the pool, take the time to talk to them about it so they can mentally prepare and ask you questions or express any concerns they might have. This is especially important for our non-confident swimmers who are at the beginning of their Learn to Swim journey, and our kids that are prone to a bit of anxiety.

2) Take it easy! Everyone is in the same boat. Everyone, from babies who were just getting confident submerging, to Squad Swimmers that were training for Nationals - everyone has had this time off. Everyone has lost their conditioning and it may take some time for us to all get our fitness, confidence and skills back. We will all benefit from going back to basics and easing back in to swimming, no matter what the level.

3) A tip for our Infants & Toddlers: Keep up your conditioning. Do conditioning in the bath, in the shower - any time you can. This will help physically prepare them for their return to swimming lessons. Remember to use your verbal cue before gently pouring water over the head and face, and only continue if they are comfortable. You can extend the amount of seconds you continuously pour water for, as this will aid in extending their breath control. Aim for up 10 seconds as your end goal. Bath time is a great time to practice these skills: Bath time is PLAY TIME! (Always remember that children shouldn’t be left unsupervised at any time during the bath). Also try to have a smile on your face - they are looking to you to see how they should react, so enthusiasm and playfulness is key.

We can’t wait to see you all, hang in there - things will be back to normal soon.
If you have any Learn to Swim or Squad Inquiries, get in touch by calling us on 3204 2725.