Oh I felt this with my eldest, she never did what she was “supposed to” in the lessons. I just reminded myself that at this stage it was all about getting comfortable and confident in the water so if she didn’t always follow the structure of the lesson that was ok. (The teacher actually encouraged this) second the comment about snacks when getting changed, she also liked having a book to flick through in the changing room to keep her busy. I do think it could be something to do with it being you as well, when I was heavily pregnant with her sister and then PP her grandad took her swimming and she actually behaved so much better for him than she ever did for me. My 2 year old has just started and she just goes with grandad, I didn’t even bother attempting it this time 😂 although her lessons are during the week when I’m at work so didn’t really have a choice anyway
At this age they have no impulse control, so cant control their behaviour and due to limited verbal communication (words, talking) they find it so hard to express themselves and what they need...I always think of it as my daughter having a hard time, not giving me a hard time. I didn't start my oldest with lesson until she was much older nearer 3 and intend to do the same this time around (shes 4 and half and can swim independently), at the minute I take my 2 year old Monthly just for fun and splashing etc. So she gets used to the water (don't take her more due to eczema)
Maybe it’s because the other children have been going longer? It’s a big adjustment to do something totally new. It’ll likely take a few weeks to settle in x
I’ve been taking my daughter to weekly swimming classes since 12 months old, she used to scream for months, crying when getting dressed afterwards (she used to get really cold) then one day she just stopped! Luckily she’s always liked the pool (give or take a few occasions 🤷🏼♀️) but what I would say is talk to the instructor cos they should give you advice. I’ve seen the instructor at my class tell parents to take a break and try again in another month or so. Sometimes a break is the best thing for them 🩷
Thanks everyone for your comments and advice! I think I'll persist for now with the terms I've paid for and then reassess x
We haven't started lessons but we go regularly. I just make it fun for him and follow what he wants to do with a bit of kicking and learning to blow bubbles and float etc but also do lots of jumping in and splashing. I've always just focussed on him being confident in the water and he loves it. I don't think he'd like lessons much so will wait until he's a little older. I find having snacks when we're getting changed is a lifesaver, i get him dressed ignoring the tantrum then he sits quietly with a biscuit or something whilst I get dressed. I think all mums have been there as it's common they tantrum when they get out.