It’s hard to believe that 2011 is nearing my 20th summer for providing swimming instruction for kids in the neighborhood.
Perhaps more surprising, is that I am not burned out with the entire enterprise. I see rewards every single summer.
- The thrill and exhilaration of being in water
- The mixed bag of desire and fear in taking the first jump off the board
- The confidence and self –esteem children gain in managing the water
- Not to mention the assistance in keeping my own body in shape
Hopefully we can have a few more great years!
Investment Needed: What’s the price?
- $35 a week
- 5 1-hour sessions Monday–Friday at 1
- Beginner instructions 11:00
- Intermediate Instruction 12:00
Notes: Keeping you in the Know
Inclement Weather: What qualifies?
- Cool air in spite of sun; a brisk breeze even in 80 degrees; rainy, damp and cool temps; or cold water temps
- Generally, time fighting bad weather is non-productive and money ill spent.
- I am quite liberal in postponing a session
- A decision to postpone is made 35-40 min prior to beginning the class.
Readiness for Swimming: How young do we start?
- I don’t understand a huge need to enter 2-3 yr olds in swimming and don’t choose to work with youngsters that young.
- 5-6 years old is generally a great age to begin.
- More than age, being comfortable with getting the head under the water is generally a good indicator in readiness for swim instruction
Mastery of Skills
- In 1 week of instruction, all key skills for deep water swim will be demonstrated and taught.
- Mastery of skills depends, and are not necessarily expected in a week
- Often, children don’t perform well under pressure in a group
- Play and practice time- at one’s own leisure is a significant part of learning a skill.
- Risk-takers generally learn faster; cautious types will learn just as well slower.
Preventing Distractions
- Generally, siblings splashing in water become a distraction to instruction.
- Parents are free to run errands, bring lunch, or stay and watch.
|
