Growing up, I took swimming lessons for a few summers at a local pool but also spent a lot of time at the river so I was always comfortable around the water. I’m no Michael Phelps but I consider myself to be a decent swimmer. Given that there is so much more information out there about water fatalities, I have been super paranoid around pools since I became a parent. You hear so many horror stories every year of children drowning and it’s always been a fear of mine. So, when a Goldfish Swim School opened in the Richmond area and reached out to offer us lessons, I jumped at the opportunity to partake.
Liam is still only 19 months and is in a parent and child class but as he gets older and the kids get more independent, Mom gets a break and the kids swim just with the instructors. Since at this age they’re still young, they do teach the kids that age to kick and pull their arms but the main focus of the Mini Classes is water safety and how to float on their backs and pull themselves out of the pool. This has really given me more confidence with Liam being at the pool this summer now that he is mobile. Sometimes floaties just don’t cut it. Fortunately, Liam has really taken to the pool and loves going to class (and always takes a killer nap afterwards!). Winning!
Goldfish Swim School makes the learn-to-swim experience super fun for the kids (hello, they’re kids!). As an example, kids take turns riding in a canoe and the Goldfish team celebrates every child’s successes with ribbons, high fives and lots of positive reinforcement.
Goldfish Swim School is also absolutely adorable inside and they have everything you need for a successful lesson experience! They offer private, family changing huts to change in and out of swimsuits.
And even a hairdryer station for making sure no one walks out with a wet head of hair. Parents included!
Not pictured though is Liam’s personal favorite spot for after class – the snack bar! They have snacks available for purchase and I always allow him to get a treat of his choice after class. Typically this is a tootsie roll for $.25 and Mom gets one too. 🙂 They also have a “pro shop” and sell swim suits, reusable swim diapers (required for those who aren’t potty trained), towels and goggles in case you forget something or are in need of something for class.
If you’re in the market for swim lessons for your little one, I can’t recommend Goldfish Swim School enough! We have already discussed continuing doing this for Liam in the off-season so he can continue to improve and have an energy outlet on the weekends. Because we all know toddlers need to get that energy out!
If you are interested in checking out Goldfish Swim School, I suggest attending one of their weekly Family Swims to tour the facility and learn more about their classes.
