My daughter is in swimming lessons right now. She loves it and we're proud of the progress she's made. She's having fun and learning a lot. Isn't that enough? Some other parents may not think so?
We usually arrive early and watch some of the class ahead of hers. It was fun to watch the other class and we didn't worry about being late to class. Lately the fin has gone away.
There is a new kid in the class prior to my daughter's. She seems like a sweet little girl. Her Dad is another story. From the side of the pool he yells, shouts, and screams instructions and pushes her. Who does the poor kid listen to - the swimming teacher or Dad? It must be very confusing for her.
She's afraid to do the little slide into the water. Last class Dad went over and yanked the screaming/crying child down the slide. Now, I think we should challenge ourselves and our kids to look beyond fear and try things but I also think you need to be aware of when it is too soon. This child is terrified and not quite ready for all they ask her to do.
Should the teacher say no or should the parents back off? Personally I think both are wrong. The kid is terrified and not ready. I say back off a little, let her gain some confidence and then tackle things like the slide. If she learns to do the slide today (screaming) or in a month (happy and ready) does it matter?
Swimming lessons - life lessons too.
Published by Robin Dary on August 2, 2007 10:00 AM
