Our Children’s First Swim Lessons

By Brendan O’Melveny, Co-COO of Imagine Swimming

Swimming has forever been a central part of my life. My mom took me to Parent & Me classes when I was a baby, I joined a swim team at seven, and became a lifeguard at 15. As an instructor myself for over a quarter century, I’ve given hundreds of new parents tips on how best to approach their first classes with their little ones. 

Yet, when it was finally my turn, I realized just how challenging it can be as a parent. There’s a natural anxiety there, no matter how much experience or expertise you may have in the water. Finding lessons at the right time for your child, getting them changed and ready, juggling towels, diapers, suits, bottles, snacks - all while keeping them calm - takes more time and patience than most expect. 

It can all be overwhelming! 

My first lesson with my first child reminded me of just how important it is to slow down and stay present. Babies and toddlers take cues from us. If we’re tense, they feel it. When we relax, they usually follow. Remember - the first goal of swim lessons isn’t about kicking, bubble blowing, or arm strokes - it’s about helping a child feel comfortable and supported in the water. Once that trust builds, the rest will come. 

First lessons - at anything - are exciting but, invariably, a little nerve-wracking. Especially when you’re around a potentially dangerous element like the water. Pools also tend to have so many rules. Locker rooms can be confusing, and figuring out where to go or what to expect can make even seasoned parents feel anxious or frustrated. 

I’ve spent most of my life in and around pools, yet when I brought my oldest daughter for her first lesson, I was still plenty nervous myself! 

Here are a few tips that can help make your child’s first lessons at Imagine as fulfilling and stress-free as possible. 

1. Visit the pool ahead of time.

Walk through the lobby, locker rooms, and viewing area before your first class. Seeing the space when you’re not rushed helps both you and your child feel more at ease. Let them see the pool, and watch other children swimming & having fun.

2. Arrive 15-20 minutes early.

Give yourself plenty of time to get to the pool, check in, change, and be ready for class without stress. A calm start makes a big difference. 

3. Bring the basics.

Swim suit, towel, goggles (optional for infants), and swim cap (optional but recommended) are the essentials. Kids under 3 years will also need a reusable swim diaper and Happy Nappy diaper cover.  A wet bag for suits & towels afterward saves headaches later, or reuse a plastic shopping bag.

4. Talk to the Deck Supervisor.

They’re there to help. If you have concerns, goals, or specific things you’d like the teacher to focus on, say so. We tailor our classes to each individual student, because every student - and parent - is looking for something unique. Some parents want their children to be challenged, and others prefer them to be allowed to go slowly. Others simply want them to have fun! Tell the Deck Supervisor what you think is best for your child, and we’ll work together to meet their needs.

5. Expect a range of emotions.

Some kids jump right in. Others cling to you and cry. Both are normal. Celebrate small steps - putting a face in the water, floating for a few seconds, or even just standing calmly in the water. If your child is having a hard time separating from you, you may want to stay close but hidden from view, to give them a chance to get to know & trust their instructor.

We sign our kids up for swimming lessons for all kinds of reasons - safety, exercise, social time, or just fun. But beyond those, swimming gives children something rare: confidence in an environment that once felt intimidating. Watching your child learn to trust the water - and themselves - is one of the most rewarding parts of parenting I’ve experienced.