With summer approaching, we thought that it would be a good idea to sign the boys up for swim lessons. The funny (or not so funny) thing is that they both think they know how to swim already but actually have no idea. If asked the question, they will say "yes, I know how to swim" when actually they would probably sink like a rock to the bottom of the pool. So yesterday they started their swim lessons. They were so excited to get on their swim trunks and go to the pool. I had to explain to them that they were going to have to listen to the teacher and only go in the pool when he says to etc., etc. So we get there and things are going okay. Charles is one of the older ones in the class of 5 and is doing a good job of listening. Joey on the other hand who has no fear, is having to be reminded over and over again to stay with the group. It is a zero entry pool, so he keeps trying to walk deeper and away from the class. It makes me nervous to not be right next to him in the water in case he trips and goes under or walks too deep. But I put my trust in the teacher and just constantly keep my eye on him. Towards the end of the class the teacher had them hold the edge of the pool and inch their way to the deeper water so he could teach them how to climb out of the pool with out steps. As he was individually helping each child to climb out, I'm thinking, "keep your eye on Joey" as my stomach is in knots because they are now where it is deeper and on the other side of the pool from me. Then sure enough, Joey goes under. Thank goodness the teacher was only one child over and was able to quickly help him out. Then my mind starts going crazy, "what if the teacher was to far or didn't see him do it? Could I get across the pool fast enough with Tori in my arms and fully clothed?" I am now very nervous to go to the next class because I know I will be paranoid. I think they should only allow 3 kids per teacher instead of 5. Ugghh, I never knew putting your kids in swim lessons could be so stressful.
15 comments:
ohhhh...carson was, make that IS, the same way. When we went to Costa Rica last spring he would literally walk out and jump in the pool--it was 4 feet deep at the shallow end. I am scared too, but I know it will be better to have him learn to swim than to have no fear of the water and leap in with no one looking! Maybe you can talk to his teacher and let him know your concerns? I hope it goes better next time!
OH yes...it can be completely nerve racking! At least now Joey has had a taste of what could happen if you don't pay attention and the teacher has had a taste of Joey's over-confidence.
LOL
It is always harder on mom watching. =0
What Liz didn't tell you is that I was there as well and was absolutely climbing the WALLS with frustration at the teacher. It took a lot of self control to not march across the pool and tell the guy to PAY ATTENTION!!! But in actuality, the teacher was fine--I am just still a little too controlling when it comes to the boys facing any danger.
I can't even imagine swimming lessons. I get nervous leaving Nezzie alone in the swan bathtub. Those wings are sharp!
Hmmm, I see someone else is "comment padding" as well.
The most important thing though I think is to make sure they are having fun. As a certain little boy put it while clinging onto the edge of the deep end at Katella High's pool..."Fun huh?" (In a very nervous tone)
I think the most important thing is to make sure that they are having fun. As a little boy once put it while clinging to the edge of Katella High's deep end of the pool, "Fun huh?" (in a very nervous tone). Too bad its too dangerous for kids to walk home nowadays. James and I would cut through backyards (from south hill), eat peoples cherry tomatoes, and walk barefoot on that soft cushiony grass (I'm sure there's a name for it). Then again maybe its a good thing they don't walk home anymore.
Okay, now this is just my "too-laid-back" parenting style coming out but I have to say I giggled Joe, when I read your comment. I can TOTALLY visualize you muttering words to yourself and trying to stare down this swimming instructor in order for him to be able to understand your frustration and your concern.
And, actually 5 in a class is GOOD! Many classes here have between 8 and 10. To me, that is too many.
Enjoy! This will bring a whole new world of excitement and frustration your way. HAHAHAHAHA!
No, I'm not laughing AT you. I'm laughing WITH you. ;-)
Well, let's just say, "I can relate," to the parents' concern. And different reactions from different kids. The best, of course, was James, who said, "Do I have to take swim lessons next summer? Because I might drown." This was said in the middle of the winter. And, if it weren't for good old Katella swim lessons, we wouldn't have the family phrase, "Fuuhn..!huh..?) from Jon who was clutching onto the side for dear life.
Yeah, unfortunately they have to have a few near death experiences to teach them to be more careful:)
Sorry all--if you were confused about the comments they were "off" for a few days (not on purpose). I just thought I'd let you all know (in another comment--hey look, we have 10 on this post...)
Um I believe that is deliberate comment padding something that you once accused other bloggers of...hahaha
For the record, I am all for comment padding. I may have been skeptical at first, but after feeling the joy it brings, I have seen the light and thought I should tell you all . . . in another comment.
Wow...you all get a blog for 6 months and now you're going crazy with the comment padding.
Y'all are encouragable.
um jon, i think it was the shallow end, not the deep end of the pool where you said that. but in your mind it probably was the deep end since you couldn't reach the bottom at that age.
good ol' katella pool. where i took syncronized swimming two years in a row - even though some people refuse to believe it.
joe, pad, pad, pad. 14 comments! it's funny (and a little sad) how much joy multiple comments can bring.
I see there are no comments from the Wheeler side of the family. I suppose that is because there are only the 2 of us who believe in blogging:) What is wrong with that picture? As for Joey, maybe you have him in the wrong class, I think he said he wanted to be in the scuba class!!
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