Mermaid in Training

Today Little graduated from the 2nd level of the swimming program in AquaTots. After 5 lessons, she was still not happy in their pool, but she did everything she needed to pass levels and more importantly she did NOT cry.

She is considerably happier in our pool; therefore, we have decided not to continue the lessons, at least not for now. The point of the lessons at this level is to get them comfortable in the water, teach them how to float and how to get in and out of the pool. We are working on all of these at home, so no need to go somewhere she doesn't like when we can teach her ourselves.

Our new secret weapon in making every trip to the pool a success is Barbie. We have several beach toys, but quickly we realized that if we have too many toys with us at the pool, Little becomes distracted and wants to hold them all at once, which makes it impossible to try to teach her anything, but having only Barbie is perfect.

See for yourself how comfortable Little has become in the pool. Two weeks ago, she didn't even want to put her feet in the water, and now...

The little mermaid

Before she realized what was happening...
Running around happily

My little mermaid wanted nothing to do with the water during our first AquaTots swimming lesson. 

The moment we stepped into the water she started crying, at some points even screaming. The class continued as if nothing, tears or no tears she had to practice all the skills we want her to learn for water safety.
These are the skills she should learn from the five week class:

1. Water Adjustment, Balance & Buoyancy
2. Safe Water Entry/Exit
3. Water Exploration and Submersion
4. Assisted Front Glide & Back Float
5. Water Survival Skills - Assisted Rollovers with Instructor or Parent
6. Water Safety Techniques for parents to educate their child

Flirting with a boy after the class

And I get lollilops?!?

What do I do with this lollipop thing?

Even though she was not the happiest toddler in the class (there were only three), I believe the class was a success because with the proper guidance we took the first step in making sure Little enjoys her summer in the water. 

We'll continue our classes next Tuesday