Those with older children (5-10)...swimming ?

When did they learn to swim? Not take lessons...but really learn to swim?

DD is 6 and DH acted like it was the end of the world b/c she couldn't swim at the beginning of the summer. He also put too much pressure on her as well (he was taking away toys and privileges because she wouldn't learn in an instant). He also ignored her fear factor and would attempt to toss her in the pool, force her into deeper water than she was comfortable in and not listen to her when she was scared.

Finally, he learned the beauty of instead rewarding her if she learned. Cost him ANOTHER webkinz, but she learned. I remember learnign at the same age so I never saw it as an issue...especially since on LI she can only swim from LATE June to early September, so really only 2 months. It's not like she's had tons of exposure to pools and most summers she's with my MIL who doesn't swim so she was used to "baby pools" and usually swam at family pools where swim floats are allowed.

I just thought he was a little too harsh on her. Any thoughts? (basically, he tried to teach her to swim on intimidation and later realized what I had said all along...ENCOURAGE her!)

Re: Those with older children (5-10)...swimming ?

Yikes, your husband can't just expect her learn to instantly learn to swim. I think it's horrible to take things away from her because she can't swim. I'm glad he is realizing that isn't the way to go.

My son (8) tries, he can doggie paddle a little and he does really well swimming under water. I would never punish him for not learning fast enough though. Especially without any formal lessons. Many kids just eventually learn to do it. I think I was about 9 or 10 before I could really swim long stretches.

Many towns offer swimming lessons in the Summer. I know Brookhaven has classes that are everyday for 2 weeks in various levels and they are only $45.

Re: Those with older children (5-10)...swimming ?

"He also ignored her fear factor and would attempt to toss her in the pool, force her into deeper water than she was comfortable in and not listen to her when she was scared."

That sounds dangerous. You should never just toss a child into a pool, they could hit their head and be severely injured, maybe even die. Also, forcing a child into deep water can be very traumatic, especially if that child cannot swim and is not comfortable. And you should always listen to a child when he or she is scared.

I am glad your child is over your fear. Did she just start swimming one day and you got her a webkin? That is so sweet. That is a great example of how to encourage a child and reward her for her bravery. Maybe she was not as afraid as she thought. Glad it worked out!

Re: Those with older children (5-10)...swimming ?

My guy is 5 and has a little more courage than last summer. He's been brave enough to try swimming without his swimmies a few times. I encourage him to wear only one but hes not too comfortable with this. So hopefully next summer he'll be ready to swim on his own.
I think the more we push it, the less they want to do it.

Re: Those with older children (5-10)...swimming ?

My kids are 4 1/2 and 9 1/2. I gave them both lessons starting at 3 and by 5 my oldest was a "competent" swimmer. At almost 10, she is practicing for the junior lifeguard test at camp. My little one is a little more fearful and is just beginning to swim. She gets a lesson at home and lessons three times a week at camp. That said, I think its pretty unusual for a 5 or 6 year old to be a strong swimmer and that's what really worries me as my kids are in the water all summer, pretty much everyday.

Re: Those with older children (5-10)...swimming ?

We did swimming lessons earlier (aged 3) as a reward for potty training.

I've been very lax about it & need to sign them both up (aged 4 & almost 6). I'd love to do the YMCA again but may have to opt for a Saf-T Swim program.

I think if she's starting to enjoy swimming, you shoud look into your community centers, etc for more swimming lessons. It will only make her a stronger swimmer.

I do think your DH was too harsh but could see my DH doing the same thing if I wasn't around.

Re: Those with older children (5-10)...swimming ?

I think you are right and Im so glad your DH learned the better way to handle your DD. My one BIL does everything through intimidation with my one nephew and it's so hard to see it happen. I have intimidated my DS when it comes to safety things, like when he thinks he can run off in a store where I cant see him though. I think your DD is in the age range where a lot of kids learn, I have a niece and nephew who are both around 6 1/2 and both swim. Neither of my older kids is afraid of the water but they dont know how to swim yet without assistance. My DS is almost 5 and very daring but with swimmies on his arms.