Mermaid in the Pool: Swim Class at Island Athletic Club with Debbie

Marina began swim classes when she was 8 months old, as a baby in the group (3 month old to 3 year old) class. She loved the water and swimming from the very start and by her second class we were blowing in her face and going under the water with her! Babies know inherently to close their mouths and hold their breath when you blow in their face. As a part of this class we did just that and created a routine where we would tell baby, "We're going under the water, ready? 1...2...3.... (then you blow in their face and immerse yourself and your baby in the water, briefly. As you come back up out of the water you smile at baby and wipe the water off her face, saying, "Great job!" Here are some pictures of my little 3 year old mermaid, Marina, with her swim instructor, Debbie:

Marina being coached by Debbie at Island Athletic Club

Learning how to be a mermaid with Debbie: Float like a boat exercise

More "Float Like a Boat" and keep your head tucked down...

Up for air

Swimming

Diving for rings. Marina still needs help getting down to the bottom of the pool to reach the rings. Below she gets a little push from Debbie

Got them!! Marina grabs 2 rings

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