Bath mum Georgie Crawshaw takes the plunge with her four-year-old as they dive into their first lessons with Mighty Splash Swim School
There’s one superpower all children should possess – and that’s being able to swim. I’m a self-confessed water baby, so it’s hardly surprising my four-year-old has been splashing about since day dot and is more than capable of keeping his head above water. But I think it’s about time we progressed from doggy paddle to dolphin mode – so we’re taking the plunge with some lessons at Mighty Splash Swim School.
Location-wise, there are three to choose from (including pools at Downside School in Radstock and Wellingborough), but we’ve settled on Prior Park College in Bath city centre as it’s the most convenient for us. There’s plenty of parking on site and a cute 18m pool that doesn’t feel too intimidating for the little people.
Kids can start their Mighty Splash journey from age two – although they will need a plus one in the water with them. Next, it’s preschool lessons, which not only mark the beginning of the Learn to Swim programme, but also mean accompanying adults are relegated to the poolside at this point. A quick word of warning – having fun and developing a life-long love of swimming is a core part of the Mighty mission, so don’t be surprised if you still get a little wet!
Based on my wee man’s age, water confidence and competency, we are jumping straight into STA level one. There are seven in total, covering everything from the basics, like buoyancy and propulsion, right up to competitive swimming techniques and lifesaving skills in the bronze, silver and gold advanced awards.
I’m pleased to see that play is a priority for lessons, but safety always comes first. The ratio of adults to kids is reassuringly low – at this stage it’s six children to one water-based teacher and their assistant. My little man starts off a little shy and unsure about leaving mummy on the side, but our instructor, the Mighty Michelle, couldn’t be more enthusiastic or encouraging. Within minutes he’s forgotten all about me and they are bonding over their toenails (which are painted the same shade of pink – a little treat leftover from our holiday!)
Before I know it he’s in the pool and giggling away practising “froggie” legs (breaststroke to you and me) and “dolphin” kick (a clever drill for developing butterfly). There’s also some underwater fun collecting brightly coloured sinkers, and what swimming lesson would be complete without a big jump in at the “deep” end? The half an hour is up far too soon and his first words as he rushes over to give me a soggy hug: “Can we come again, mummy?”
Over the next few weeks he’s everything from an aeroplane to a rocket, superhero to sea animals – they even cover water safety and beach warning flags. Every lesson is different, so there’s no risk of him getting bored, and the weekly themes are a big hit. Be it “transport” or “a day at the beach”, each session is a carefully choreographed aquatic adventure designed to unleash the imagination and build confidence in the water. I have to admit, our Sunday splash is quickly becoming the highlight of my week – let alone his!
Mighty Splash offer private and group lessons for all ages, from toddlers to adults, and even Mighty Mermaid birthday parties too. For a FREE taster session or to find out more visit mightysplash.com.
