Everyone agrees that the earlier your child starts learning to swim, the easier it’ll be for them to feel comfortable and confident in the water. But how can you be sure your toddler is ready to learn this life-changing skill?

Starting too early or pushing your baby too much can be counterproductive and lead to phobias that can transform their lives completely. Toddlers make progress at their own pace so it’s crucial to determine their swim level before enrolling them in any private swim lessons in San Diego. If you’re unsure how to assess their swimming abilities, read the article below to find out!

How to assess swimming ability?

Understanding your kids’ swimming ability is essential to help them improve their skills and confidence in the water. Here is how you can do it:

1. How comfortable are they in the water?

Does your toddler enjoy splashing around in the water or do you always have to convince them to get their feet wet? If your little one feels at ease in a pool and can float when supported by your hands or a floatation device, they’re probably ready to engage in swimming activities confidently.

But if your kid doesn’t play happily in the water, you should start with simple activities, such as getting accustomed to being in a pool.

2. How do they move in the water?

If your toddler enjoys being in the water, you can test how they can move in it to gauge their readiness to swim. Here is how:

• Does your kid kick their legs in the water when holding onto one side of the pool? If they do, this means they comprehend how to move and propel themselves in the water. 
• Ask your kid to put their face in the water and blow bubbles. This simple activity indicates your kids have control over breathing, a crucial skill while swimming.
• If your toddler can splash with their arms while floating or sitting in the water, they’re ready to practice coordination while swimming. 

3. Can your kid float?

Floating is a vital water safety skill since it’s the most efficient way to breathe and rest. To evaluate it, try the following:

• Let your toddler rest on your hands and guide them to float on their backs. If your kids can relax in this position or even float without your support for a few seconds, this means they’re comfortable in the water.
• Place your kid on their stomach to see if they can extend their arms and body.

4. How independent is your kid in the water?

Constant supervision is necessary when toddlers are in the water, but you need to find a way to support your kid’s wish to explore the water independently. Within your arm’s reach let your kid explore on their own. Observe the following:

• Can your little one crawl or walk in the shallow water without your help or fear?
• Does your kid enjoy jumping in the water while you hold them?
• Some toddlers will naturally try to move their arms and legs in a paddling motion. This indicates that they’re ready to start learning fundamental swim strokes.

5. Do you see any signs of fear or resistance?

Make sure not to be too pushy. Many children can be afraid of water. So if your kid cries, or shows resistance to enter the pool, float with your hands under their bodies, or get their faces wet, this indicates they’re not ready to work on their swimming skills. In this case, encourage your kids to take part in gentle water play and gradually develop trust before moving on to more demanding swim lessons.

6. Rely on professionals

Even though you may know your toddler and their abilities best, professional help can be indispensable in determining your kids’ swimming skills. These highly qualified instructors use a systematic approach to pinpoint and enhance your kids’ swimming skills. 

Swimming lessons are categorized into numerous levels. They focus on children’s feeling of comfort in the pool, teach them elementary safety skills (treading water or floating), and introduce basic swim strokes. On top of that, for the youngest ones, parents’ presence is mandatory. This helps toddlers feel secure while acquiring new skills.

Where can I book private swim lessons in San Diego?

If you want your kids to learn to swim this fall in San Diego, Plunge San Diego is the place to go. Our experienced instructors will assess your child’s swimming abilities and help your child learn to swim in a fun and relaxing way in one of the most beautiful swimming pools in the area. We’ll help you get your kid ready for the session and have an experience of their lifetime. Drop by today. We are waiting for you!