I have tried for the last 6 years or so, to convince my boys to swim. This year, they conceded to try a summer league, and it was all I could do to contain my enthusiasm. In my coaxing, I promised I wouldn't be that mom. Both boys are doing very well in their first week of practice. My 9 year old is doing so much more than I ever expected :applaud: and my 13 year old has learned a lot more in gym class than I thought. (Neither one would let me teach them, I had to sign them up for outside swim lessons). 9 yo still has to learn a feel for the water and has a long way to go. But that's ok, because he is enjoying himself, and like I said, he is exceeding my expectations...I didn't think he could finish a 25, let alone 50's and 100's (albeit doggy paddle is thrown in on the longer swims). My older boy has a lot of potential. All he needs is a little technique tweak here and there. But I promised. I promised to keep my mouth shut unless he specifically asked for tips and pointers. It doesn't make sense for me to go home during practice since there just isn't enough time to go home and back. I would almost have to turn around in my driveway. SO I sit and watch. :cool: How do other swim parents do it? keep quiet? I have found myself repeating in my head.., "Don't be that mom....don't be that mom." So far, both kids are loving swimming. :banana:
Today I break my promise and take my older son to the pool to teach him how to do a flip turn. This comes after he cracked his head on the bottom of the pool after pushing off from the wall. :bitching: He hit so hard, he went numb in his neck chest and arms. We thought he had a concussion. :cane: Thankfully, the doc said he is fine, but I will take him to the deep end and teach him properly. I think he is relieved that I am going to help in this instance.
It is hard. You could always pretend to read a book or something while they're swimming. It might make them think, "what's up?" and start asking you for advice. Kids are strange, we all used to push out parents away, but props for keeping up with them and being supportive all the way.
Jen, I have been "that Dad" for sure and it took me 3 kids to finally figure out that no matter how much I want it for them, they will NOT do it on anything other than their terms. There isn't enough frozen yogurt, money or toys in the world to get a kid to swim competitively who isn't drawn to it. Let's face it. The sport kind of sucks when you describe it to anyone. You just have to sort of "get it" despite all the drawbacks so evident on the surface. So, I say NOTHING anymore unless it is 100% positive. I offer no critiques. I sit on my hands and bite my tongue when I see her take a 10 minute bathroom break in the middle of practice with her BFF. I never push for her (my middle girl) to go to practice. And now wouldn't you know it, she actually takes off on her bike alone to attend morning practice leaving her mom and sisters at home to go put the lane ropes in early. I'm not saying she's a convert but I'm sure praying she is! :)
This is awesome :)
Jen, I have been "that Dad" for sure and it took me 3 kids to finally figure out that no matter how much I want it for them, they will NOT do it on anything other than their terms. There isn't enough frozen yogurt, money or toys in the world to get a kid to swim competitively who isn't drawn to it. Let's face it. The sport kind of sucks when you describe it to anyone. You just have to sort of "get it" despite all the drawbacks so evident on the surface. So, I say NOTHING anymore unless it is 100% positive. I offer no critiques. I sit on my hands and bite my tongue when I see her take a 10 minute bathroom break in the middle of practice with her BFF. I never push for her (my middle girl) to go to practice. And now wouldn't you know it, she actually takes off on her bike alone to attend morning practice leaving her mom and sisters at home to go put the lane ropes in early. I'm not saying she's a convert but I'm sure praying she is! :)
