Fake It, Don't Break It

Any parent who gets his or her young child in the water earns my respect. It's my belief when it comes to swimming, the earlier the better. But if you are joining your child in the water in a class like Me and My Shadow, you ought to be aware of one thing - you must fake it, don't break it.

By this I mean when you are in the pool with your child, you are on stage and your audience is your child. In this situation you are an Oscar winning actor - you effortlessly move your audience with a smile or a look of fright. Although it's easy to be nervous with your child in the water, it is vital to play down these nerves and play up your enthusiasm. Children are uncannily perceptive and pick up on emotions easily. If your child unintentionally gets his or her face wet, avoid giving into your nerves. Try not to worry about how your child may react and instead pretend it is the most incredible and amazing feat. Many a time I have seen a child accidentally splash himself, pause uncertain and then burst into tears after hearing his mom exclaim, "oh sweetie are you okay". That sort of experience may hinder progress.

The same experience with a different reaction from the parent can be beneficial. If, instead of responding to the situation with nerves and fear, the mother had shown excitement and joy, the child most likely would have paused uncertain and then showed a tentative smile before, perhaps, doing it again.

When you're in class, don't forget, you're the star and the show must go on.