Swimming lessons? Are the private ones worth it?

[Jannt86]

Hi all. My LG is 32MO. I think I'm going to get her learning to swim but I just wondered what people thought about the available options? We are both confident in the water (or at least were last time we went) Will she realistically learn any more at this age from a lesson than just her and me having a splash session every week or so? And if I was going to do lessons is there much difference between council run lessons vs for example puddle ducks or water babies? Thanks x

I think if you are confident I'd save lessons until a bit older when they will have her in the water without you, and she can listen and follow instructions, so 3.5/4. (e.g. For a year before she starts school).

If you can get her putting her face in the water and kicking her legs when sat at the edge of the pool she'll be well prepared for formal lessons. Use a noodle not arm bands for good body position in the water.

(Just a parent, not a swimming teacher)

You possibly won’t be able to join the classes at the baby swim school from this age. Mine did waterbabies and then the council ones from 3 with a bit of overlap. I’d say there was quite a big difference in the maturity expected on the council ones as they went in independently and had to really listen. If I hadn’t done waterbabies I don’t think I’d have been happy starting mine off at 3 with the council. The suggestion above to wait until 31/2 or 4 is a good one.

That wasn’t meant as a criticism of the classes btw/ they’ve been brilliant. More that I think it is quite a big step for a just turned 3yo. You might not get that option though as I know mine aren’t running the pre-school classes in the same way because of covid.

Thanks all. I think I'll look at taking her swimming myself for a bit then lessons when a bit older like suggested. Xx