Taking those early splashes into swimming lessons can be difficult for parents who have a little one who doesn’t take to water like a fish.
Children feel safer when they are in a familiar environment. Yet growing up and learning is all about exploring. So that means your “mini-me” is likely to feel out of their comfort zone now and again.
If your tot is having that sinking feeling about being in the pool (no pun intended!), then helping them to become familiar with the idea and process of swimming can be extremely beneficial in the early stages of their swim journey. Exposing them to swimming, whilst on dry land, can calm their fears and anxieties.
Dive into Swimming with Knowledge
Book 1: Peppa Goes Swimming – Neville Astley
(For ages; 2-6 years old)
Peppa Pig is a very familiar character in the world of children. Peppa and George are at the swimming pool. It’s George’s first time so this strikes some fear in George. This book looks at how Mummy and Daddy Pig try to convince George to hop in and give swimming a go! Peppa Pig also has many activity books that are parallel with the story book. I’m Ready for Swimming – Penguin Random House Australia
Book 2: I’m Ready for Swimming – Jedda Robaard
(For ages; up to 3 years old)
This book details the excitement of hopping in the pool without Mum or Dad! This book contains brilliant illustrations that are sure to get your children excited for swimming lessons. Spot Goes to the Swimming Pool – Eric Hill
Book 3: Spot Goes to the Swimming Pool – Eric Hill
(For ages; up to 3 years old)
Spot, yet another popular children’s character, feels extremely nervous going to the pool, until his Mum and friends offer him some support! He is splashing around in no time! The Swimming Lesson by Dori Chaconas
Book 4: Cork and Fuzz: The Swimming Lesson – Dori Chaconas
(For ages; 6-8 years old)
Details two friends, Cork and Fuzz. Cork, a muskrat is a confident swimmer, and Fuzz, a possum, still yet to learn. Which is not easy for Fuzz because as a possum, swimming doesn’t come naturally. Through illustrations, the reader can follow along with Fuzz as he dives into learning. Concepts of problem solving, fear and making comprises are all explored. Best fun of all whilst learning – this book is full of humour!
Book 5: Saturday is Swimming Day – Hyewon Yum
(For ages; 3+ years old)
This book is fantastic! New things can be scary. Share with your little one the experiences of one young girl as she discovers that it can take time to feel comfortable and confident in the water. And that sometimes, a little bravery and a lot of patience can conquer fears.
Book 6: There’s a Sea in my Bedroom – Margaret Wild
(For ages; 3+ years old)
David, a little boy, is scared of swimming in the ocean. To cope, he creates an imaginary world where he is free to explore things that scare him in the safety of his own bedroom. And when the time comes to test his fear of the ocean in real life? Oh, he is ready. All about conquering fear, and the illustrations are awesome.
Reviews and Recommendations?
You can help other parents who have young beginner swimmers by leaving reviews on the above books or recommending and reviewing others.