A reluctant swimmer may dislike water or new experiences, or they may actually be fearful. You can help your child overcome their reluctance by seeking out the right type of swimming teaching style.

1. Plenty of Water Play

Water can be frightening for some children, often because they don't feel in control or capable of staying afloat. Water in the face is an especially strong source of fear. Water play helps alleviate this stress as, over time, the child becomes used to both moving in the water and having water on their face. Teaching in a swimming environment with shallow areas and plenty of water toys for splashing and frolicking can slowly decrease your child's fearfulness and increase their association with water and fun.

2. No Force Policies

Forcing a child into water or trying skills that they are not comfortable with won't overcome their fear. Instead, it will only solidify the fear and make future swim instruction even more difficult. Opt for a swim teacher that has a strict no-force policy. Children should be introduced slowly and at their own pace to new skills. The teacher must know how to introduce challenges in gradual enough increments so that even the most fearful child can be willing to try.

3. High Praise Methods

Many fearful children will respond to genuine praise. Teachers that complement even the smallest accomplishments are more likely to help your child overcome their fears compared to those that are more prone to withholding praise. Look for those with praise integrated into their teaching methods. For example, some teachers or swim schools provide weekly praise boards where every child gets a mention for their accomplishments, no matter what they are. Teachers should also use plenty of praise while actively in the water with your child.

4. Leveled Peer Groups

It can be heartbreaking and frustrating for a fearful child to be lumped in a class with the "babies" or to be the slowest swimmer in their own peer group. For this reason, it is best to find a class that has students of similar skill and age all together. This way your child won't feel behind. Further, being around children of similar skill and age will help encourage your child to mimic their peers and overcoming their fear. Swim time is more likely to become a fun time with friends. If it isn't possible to find a class of same-level peers, then private lessons may be a better option until your child gains more confidence.

Contact a swimming school to learn more about their teaching methods.