Last week Fuller started official swimming lessons given by the Department of Parks and Recreation. The Rec Center in our neighborhood is one of two in the city that has an indoor pool, so it is really convenient for us to take him. The lessons are on Monday and Wednesday afternoons (we forgo the afternoon nap), but Fuller would prefer if the lessons were Sunday through Saturday. And he would be an even bigger fan if they started the second he rolled out of bed.

The verdict is in: Fuller loves swimming lessons.

Last September, when we were in Florida visiting the baby Genevieve, Fuller really made great strides in being comfortable in the water. He would move his legs to propel himself from adult to adult, most of the time laughing and giggling with delight.

When I checked on swimming lessons for Fuller, I knew the fun from September was long forgotten in his own mind, so I feared the worst. I feared my son would be just like me.

I have vivid memories of going to the neighborhood pool in Lexington, Virginia and playing in the little kids’ wading pool. I was happy. I also have vivid memories of starting swimming lessons in the nearby “big pool.” I was terrified. I was screaming. I was not happy.

Fuller’s mild sensory issues about getting his face and head wet were what really caused me to pause and think about the swimming lessons. I didn’t want to see my little guy unhappy in the water, especially if I wasn’t going to be in the water with him to help. But Damon was smart and reminded me how Fuller seems to excel more when he sees other kids doing something. This was proven last summer when Fuller saw his buddy Luke swimming and jumping off the diving board. When Fuller tried to do it, it was a big step in his confidence.

Now we walk to the Rec Center on Mondays and Wednesdays and Fuller is ready to jump in. He has been kicking on the side of the pool, and tolerates floating on his back with help from his teacher.

And I am glad it is Monday, because if Fuller asks me one more time to go swimming, I might just go throw him in a lake. Or not.

Technorati Tags: swimming lessons

Trackback URI | Comments RSS