When learning a new skillset such as swimming, learning as part of a group can be extremely helpful. There are many benefits as to why group lessons are beneficial for your child. Not just from a technical standpoint, but also from a social standpoint.
Swimming should be FUN!
Learning to swim should be fun. We want kids who come to AUT Millennium to learn to swim to enjoy their lessons. Being in a group environment can ease any stresses that may come with learning to swim. Not only this, but it is another great way for kids to make friends. Everyone at swimming lessons is there to do the same thing, and this can be a good way for kids to connect with one another. This can make the lesson more fun, as they would then see the lesson as a time to spend with friends, rather than the daunting idea of swimming by themselves.
Learning from their classmates/friends
This is important when children are learning to swim, and might be struggling to understand or master a certain aspect of a stroke. They can turn to their classmates to give demonstrations, show them, and help them to understand. When a teacher is not in the water, some swimmers struggle to understand what is being asked of them. Having their classmates there to help is an added bonus of the group swimming setting.
Getting the right amount of rest
Due to lessons having a cap on how many kids can be in the class, kids are also getting the right amount of break time and rest between each lap or distance they are doing. Having a class size limit allows the amount of rest to be constant. Without rest, your child is likely to get very tired, very fast, both mentally and physically, especially with the little ones.
Encouragement
Sometimes, if a child can’t seem to quite get the correct style or technique that is required for the stroke, the encouragement of other children can really help. Their support can boost enthusiasm and determination, with swimmers keeping on trying until they get it. Seeing their classmates struggle and then master a skill can often motivate a child to do the same themselves.
These are just some of the main benefits of learning to swim in a group setting. I personally think the best aspect of learning to swim in a group is that your child is more likely to have fun, and be keen to come along to the lessons to swim with their classmates. Private lessons can be good for some, however, at a young age, group swimming can often provide added benefits to your child’s learning-to-swim experience.
