Our little swimmer had her first “official” swimming lesson at Safe ‘n Sound Swimming. As a former swim instructor myself, learning how to swim is one of the skills I place high value on. Plus, we live in Seattle, and are surrounded by water everywhere: lakes, streams, Puget Sound and Pacific Ocean.

I’d heard that the pool at Safe ‘n Sound is much warmer than the public pools, and indeed it was, 89 degrees at Safe ‘n Sound as compared to 80-85 at a public pool. And, the lessons while short (15 minutes, though you can book two 15-minute segments back-to-back), are private, so kids learn quickly in a short period of time. On Saturdays, there is a “Family Swim,” and the whole family can splash and practice together. Families can also rent pool time for private parties.

The best part (from Baby Bird’s perspective)–aside from splashing around in the pool–was the one starfish stamp (er, wait, three stamps) that her instructor placed on her hands and feet, and the one rainbow sticker (uh, make that two stickers) she talked the front desk lady into giving her. Oh, and the free magazine (Seattle’s Child).  Swim on little fish!

Here’s what happened at her first lesson:

We began our swimming adventure in the super cute changing rooms.

Am I a fish or am I not?

Then came the pep talk from Dada.

Next Baby Bird met her swim instructor.

Into the pool she went!

Getting comfy and having fun in the water.

Learning arm movements and going for a starfish.

The back float starts here.

She really enjoyed kicking…so much fun making a big splash.

Thank you to Tricia for suggesting Safe ‘n Sound, and thank you to Maribeth and Liana for the hand-me-down swimsuits!

Take the road less traveled, Beth