Yesterday was Olivia's first swim lesson. I wasn't sure how she would do. She was very excited, of course, but that didn't mean that she would deliver once the time came. I could see her possibly freaking out about the water in her face or being too afraid to let go of the side of the pool, etc. I went to the pool with anxious curiosity.
When I was a child I LOVED swimming and was often called "a little fish". I still remember one of my first swimming lessons. I think I was about 3-4??? I was waiting in line with some other kids on the side of the pool. One by one, the teacher was holding the hand of the kids as we jumped into the water. Since I had no fear and loved the water, I was very impatient with the kids in front of me and by the time I got to the front I couldn't take it any longer. I pushed the poor little kid in front of me and said "GO!" I can't imagine how embarassed my mother was that day. I don't know what possessed me to do such a thing. I just didn't understand that other kids were actually scared of swimming and the water. I know, it's horrible. Anyway, I hope that Olivia enjoys swimming as much as I did and NEVER, EVER pushes another kid in the pool. Luckily her class only has one other girl.
So we were there early b/c Austin's lesson was first, and who came in but her best friend from church, Taylor. I immediately felt apprehensive, like the two of them are going to play around and not listen to the teacher. Well, it turned out to be the best thing! They kept chatting about it while we waited and were so excited that they got to be together. Olivia kept asking "Is it my turn yet?" She watched Austin through the glass (the pool is inside a large tent and is heated since it's winter) and she waited next to the gate like she would run in as soon as someone opened the door.
Finally her time came and she went right in. She and Taylor splashed into the water. The teacher told them to climb onto the large foam square which they use to warm up- they lay on their stomachs and kick their legs the length of the pool. Taylor jumped on with a laugh and Olivia followed without hesitation. She did well the whole lesson. I had explained to her that when it's not her turn to be with the teacher she has to sit on the steps. She sat still, which is almost physically impossible for her to do at all other times! I was also worried about the time when she would have to dive down to pick up the little fish that sink to the bottom. She is not so good at holding her breath under the water yet. She laughed and followed the teacher's instructions- no problem. The teacher just told her to keep blowing bubbles under water until she got the fish. Luckily the teacher put the fish on the steps for now, not the bottom of the pool.
I was really proud of Olivia and I admired her excitement and courage. Swimming is something that is not a strength for her, yet she showed no fear or hesitation. She plowed right in without looking back. I love this part of her personality and I really hope that she is always so brave about trying new things. It makes motherhood a lot easier for me b/c I know that some children have a fear of water, among other things, so it can take a lot of work just to get them in there. But with her it was a wonderful experience and I am really looking forward to watching her grow and develop as a swimmer.
6 comments:
Darling photos Robyn. I'm jealous that your kids have access to such great swimming lessons. I waited until it was too late so my kids didn't get lessons this summer. They really need them, especially Landon. I couldn't believe it when you said Austin can swim half way across the pool, that's so great. I need to see if there is something else available during the school year instead of waiting for the summer.
I know that Provo Rec center has year round swim lessons. There is an indoor pool there and Britney has taken her kids during the winter. I think it's kind of nice b/c it gives you an activity during the winter and then they're ready to swim when summer comes. You should check it out! Maybe the American Fork one has them too- don't they have an indoor pool?
That's awesome, Robyn. I hope you know that not all kids are like this! Lucas is 7 and still not all that keen on swimming with his head in the water. Then again, when I first went to swimming lessons (age 5) I just sat on the edge of the pool and cried. I wouldn't do a single thing the teacher asked. So embarrassing, even then. Way to go, Olivia!
I loved reading your description of Olivia's first lesson and seeing the pictures at the same time! Wow, I'm sure I couldn't go through this distance between us without the internet and all these great technical advances. How did my mom ever stand it when we moved to St. Louis?
Hey, I wasn't anonymous. I was signing my name and it took off. So that last one was me.
very cool. I love to see progress and its great olivia loved swimming. i loved watching my kids enjoy it and was amazed at how far bella progressed.
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