We all wish to teach our children to swim at one point. It’s an essential part of growing up and a great way to prevent and overcome the fear of water at an early age. Naturally, you want to make sure your child can play and explore safely in the water. However, teaching your little ones to swim successfully is a challenge, especially if they don’t enjoy it or have a strong fear of water. 

Whether your child loves or hates it, learning to swim often requires the assistance of an expert. This is why many parents opt for trusted and professional kids swimming lessons in San Diego and the vicinity. If you’re a parent who wants to help your child who dislikes swimming, read on to learn more about different ways to do that.

What to do if a child hates swimming?

Show understanding and support

You should show them patience, understanding, and support. Explain to them you understand their fear of the unknown and tell them about your first experience in the water. Your little ones should know the benefits of swimming, and how interesting and fun it can become. Let them relax, and try to lessen any pressure or anxiety by showing that you believe in them. Encourage their enthusiasm for swimming by showing them how happy and proud you are.

Practice often with them

Make pool visits a regular part of your lives by going there at least once a week with your little one. You should also be ready to join them. Ensure they learn something new every time you’re in the water. Make sure they’re not too tired or hungry for water activities and they’re fully equipped for swimming. Normalize spending time by or in the water and let them provide you with some ideas how to spend time there. They’ll feel more appreciated and encouraged if they can participate and make decisions about their pool practices.

Make sure they have some fun

They shouldn’t feel like they’re going solely to practice. Instead, they should understand it as an opportunity to have fun while learning. Adapting to this new environment might go more smoothly if you’re having fun family moments in a pool. Come up with water activities that are not only swimming. Use inflatables or a ball to practice catch, make bubbles, or splash the water, as this can all encourage your kid to stop being afraid.

Why does my child hate swimming?

Children are often reluctant when faced with something that is unknown to them. They might feel like they’re in a strange, dangerous place, with no way out. They might not like being in the water as they don’t know how to behave. Some children prefer water and are excited about both bathing and swimming, while others enter the water unwillingly. Apart from that, one of the reasons for disliking water activities can be a traumatic experience. 

This is why a careful and supportive approach is key to getting some kids to like water. Step by step, they will overcome their fear, associate pool practices with something positive and fun, and become excellent swimmers.

Who offers trusted and reliable kids’ private lessons in San Diego and the region?

If you want your toddler to learn basic swim skills, or you’re aware of all the benefits of baby swim lessons, or you have a kid who doesn’t like swimming, an ideal place is just around the corner. 

With years of experience under our belt, our knowledgeable and qualified instructors can help your child to learn to swim without fear. We offer swim lessons for every age group, from babies to adults and our pools fulfill all the necessary requirements. Apart from that, if you’re looking for a gym with pool, water aerobics, planning a party or a corporate event, look no further than the Plunge.

If you live near Cabrillo Recreation Center or Mission Trails Regional Park contact us and reap the benefits of our top-quality services. We’re looking forward to seeing you!