What to Expect with ISR Lessons

The first lesson will likely be very short.  I will begin to try to establish a rapport with your child in order to let them know that I am here to help them through this process.  This is not to say that we will not be working the first day.  We will likely get going right away, and in fact will likely go underwater too, to begin working on breath control.  

Your child may be upset and fuss on the first day.  I want to make you aware of this because it is hard for any of us to see our children upset.  Please remember these emotions do not mean your child is "fearful."   Initially in their lives, crying is a child’s only form of communication, and infants and children cry for a variety of reasons. Many students are at an age where they feel very attached to parents, and will cry when someone else is holding them.  Other children are in the phase where they want more control of their own world and get angry when anyone tries to help them.  Crying can also mean anxiety of trying something new.  We are all a little nervous when we attempt a new skill.  Then, as our skill begins to increase and it can meet the challenges at hand, we begin to enjoy the experience... My goal is to set my students up for success as often as possible throughout lessons so that they can build confidence as quickly as possible. In most cases, the emotion will reduce within the first few weeks, and your child will likely be excited to come to lessons.  

As the parent, you are the best cheerleader your child could ask for!  You are encouraged to sit at the side of the pool.  I will try to give you cues as to good times to praise your child throughout the lesson.  If you feel it would be better for your child, then you are welcome to watch from a place where you can see them but they cannot easily see you.