My kids are a bit scared of the water. Last year it took all summer before they were able to enjoy a splash pad or kiddie pool.  I really want them to not only be comfortable in and around the water, but to also safe.

So, it was time to explore swim lessons….

I signed my 3 year old up through Raleigh Parks and Rec at Optimist Pool. They offer swim lessons at multiple different indoor pools, include Buffaloe Road Aquatic Center, Millbrook Pool, and Pullen Aquatic Center, so you’re sure to find one near you!

Optimist Pool is right next door to the Optimist Community Center and Park. I had a long internal debate as to whether I should do a Parent/child class or the Preschool level 1 for 3-5 year old’s, where the kids do the class without parent involvement. Since my child loves being a part of a class I thought she would do better without me and opted for Preschool level one.

That was NOT the right decision.

She was excited to go to swim class. She loved the lessons on the steps and she loved her teacher.  We did 3 of the 6 classes with Ms. Emily. Her teacher and I encouraged her to try things away from the steps, and I even bribed her with ice cream.

My daughter really wanted to do it, but she was just too scared.

Half way through swim lessons I asked her teacher if she thought I should enroll in the parent/child class next time. She brought me to the director and we all agreed a parent/child session was a good idea. To my surprise they let us switch half way through her session. I did not ask, nor did I expect to switch. I was just looking for my next step!

The Parent/child class is designed for age 18 months to 3, but I would guess the ideal age is 2-2.5. We completed 3 classes with this group. My child was the oldest by probably close to a year. But she needed it. She needed me with her to try new things.

At her first class she was terrified. There are no steps to sit on in the parent/child class. It is a ladder entry. I literally DRUG her into the pool with me (Please don’t think I am a horrible mom!).  She was crying and had me in a headlock. Her teacher, Ms. Lillian, told me to just walk around with her and let her watch the others, and not to force anything.

I was ready to give up.

Perhaps I should try next year? Maybe she is just too young? Maybe she isn’t ready?

But we only had a couple classes left. At home we talked about how Mommy doesn’t let you sink. We played swim class with her Disney princesses.

We didn’t give up, and I am so glad we didn’t!! Her teachers were so patient and encouraging, and by the end we were doing this:

That’s right! Assisted floating! Head in the water and not crying! It was one of the most proud moments I have ever had as a mom! She even let her teacher help her float!

She’s asking to go back!

Maybe we can try the preschool class next time so mommy doesn’t have to get in the water…. Here’s to hoping!

Pro’s:

• Great staff, excellent teachers and director.
• Her teachers and the director wanted to help my daughter overcome her fear as much as I did.
• Great customer service.
• Clean environment, nice bathrooms and a large family bathroom/changing area.
• Very organized and well run
• We went from terrified to excited in 2 weeks
• Pricing is competitive with other places. $56 for 6 classes
• Indoor pool, so weather not a limiting factor

Con’s:

• Weekday classes are 2x/week for 2 weeks. 6 classes over 3 weeks is pretty brutal on our schedule. I understand why they do it – we needed that kind of intensity to make any progress. BUT now that our pool is open and I can work with her some, I may look into other places that offer 1x/week.

Interested? Sign up at Raleigh Parks and Rec

What are your experiences with swim lessons. Let me know!!