Do's and Don'ts

Do

• enrol each child on learn to swim lessons and prepare them as best as you can to be water confident before their first session
• go swimming as a family in your spare time and encourage children to try new fun activities relevant to their stage in the plan
• turn up for your lessons on time - the introductory activity of a lesson is important to develop water confidence
• wear the correct swimwear - well fitted costumes will help you move more easily through the water. Long hair should be put under a swim cap or tied back as hair over the face following submerging can be disorientating
• remove all jewellery as it may cause injury to you and others
• help us keep swimming fresh by always going to the toilet and having a shower before entering the pool
• be patient - not all swimmers develop at the same rate and some will need more support and encouragement, celebrate landmark developments - first time they jump in, completing their first 5m, swimming on their back without aids.

Don't

• assume if your child has swum 5m, 10m or 25m in one pool that they can swim the same distance anywhere. New pools, changes in water temperature, open water facilities and the seaside present new scenarios. It is essential to supervise young swimmers at all times
• take your child out of swimming lessons when they start school swimming. School swimming allows them to learn more skills, but is focused around the national curriculum. Where possible all swimmers should reach Stage 7 before stopping lessons
• enter the pool until instructed by your teacher
• eat in the hour before a swimming session
• change children in the seating areas - use the cubicles provided
• leave clothes in changing cubicles - use the lockers provided.

Other Information

• all equipment needed for lessons - floats, sinkers, swim aids - will be provided by the centres
• goggles are allowed at the discretion of the teacher - however it is recommended that swimmers do not wear them in the early stages to allow them to get use to putting their face in the water without them
• children will be expected to listen to the teacher and asked not to splash
• if a whistle or alarm is heard everyone should stop, listen and follow the instructions of the teacher and members of staff.