Swimming Lessons

Learning to swim was something that my parents made sure I could do from a very young age; they took me to swimming lessons on a weekly basis. I don't remember a time when I could not swim; it was instilled in me at a young age. I was very fortunate that my parents encouraged me; I achieved pretty much every grade of swimming that could be taken, including all the life saver awards. I still remember having to undertake swimming lessons whilst fully clothed and learning how to make a float out of a pair of trousers!

Phil and I both agreed that it was important for our girls to learn to swim, however with money being tight we have been very fortunate that Phil's parents have greatly contributed towards the cost; this has enabled us to give both Ruby and Lottie weekly swimming lessons.

Ruby started swimming lessons just after her third birthday; I wish she had started sooner, as its has taken a year for her to be able to swim unaided without any floats. She's had the confidence from word go, but the technique of kicking her legs and moving her arms correctly has taken a while to come. This week though she has finally cracked it and I feel so incredibly proud of her! I almost cried when she managed to do a whole width of the pool and back all by herself. Ruby was so pleased of herself after the lesson and told everyone she came into contact with. It was so lovely to see.

Lottie started swimming lessons at just six weeks of age and she absolutely loves her time in the pool with Phil each week; she gets very excited about the prospect of getting into the water. She is full of confidence, much like her sister and has recently learnt how to climb out of the pool at by herself!

Taken before Lottie's very 1st swimming lesson!

Bath time in our house is very funny as Ruby practices blowing her bubbles and Lottie is now starting to copy and blow her own bubbles. Lottie is a bit of a live wire in the bath and because she is so confident, she throws herself around in the bath and even goes right under the water (we really have to keep a keen eye on her!); there is not much water left when it is time for them to get out.