One of my proudest moments so far as a momma – watching her ditch the swimboard and kick away like a little fish. (Ok, so fish don’t kick but you get what I mean.)
We always thought she’d be the last to learn, amongst the three girls in class, since she’s the shortest and the most scaredy-cat one. The others are a rather competitive go-getter very tall 5.5 year old, and another vocal, un-shy 4.5 year old, who’s used to all manner of classes.
But after a few lessons, K really enjoyed it, and would wake up on Sunday mornings totally alert and raring to jump into her swimsuit.
And as the weeks went by, her confidence would mount. Slowly but surely. What a joy to witness that.
Beyond the gratification of seeing your child pick up a skill (a crucial one in her daddy’s opinion) and gain confidence even as she masters it, it’s also quite amazing to witness how our encouragement almost palpably buoys her up! How our simple words, smiles and gestures encourage her to swim on, or to bravely dunk her head under water, something that goes against her natural inclinations. For this is the same water-shy girl, who till very recently would squirm and squeal at bathtime if any water got onto her face!
We’re glad that she enjoys the exercise. It’s taught her a new skill, and probably dealt a significant boost to her self-esteem. It doesn’t matter if she didn’t learn it in record time. It doesn’t matter what age she learnt to swim. It doesn’t matter if she never gets Bronze, Silver or Gold certification.
Here’s simply to more fun days!
That picture is so precious! I felt a lump in my throat just seeing that… and I can imagine how proud you must be!
The beginning of more wonderful things to do and discover 🙂
Awww, you’re such a sweet sentimental mummy.
Yes, these moments make up for the tantrumy ones. 😛