How to Support Your Childrens Swimming Journey Outside the Pool
- G and P Creative Co
- Mar 12
- 3 min read
Ripple Kids Swim School | Abingdon & Harwell
Swimming is a vital life skill, but building confidence and ability doesn’t just happen in the pool. Whether your child is new to lessons or developing their technique, there’s plenty you can do at home and in your local area to support their progress. At Ripple Kids Swim School, we’re proud to be part of your child’s journey – and that journey continues long after lessons end each week.
Here are our top ways to keep the learning going outside the pool!
1. Turn Bathtime into Practice Time
The bath is a safe, familiar environment for little ones – and it’s the perfect place to play with water in a relaxed setting.
Here are a few activities to try:
Blowing bubbles: helps with breath control and comfort in water
Floating toys: encourage reaching, kicking, and splashing
Gentle pouring: using cups to tip water over shoulders builds trust with water on the face
Just a few minutes of playful water confidence at home can make a real difference to how your child approaches the pool.
2. Use Positive Language Around Your Childrens Swimming
Whether your little one is a nervous beginner or a future Olympian, confidence starts with how we talk about swimming. Avoid phrases like “Don’t be scared” or “It’s easy” – instead, try:
“You’re doing really well”
“It’s okay to take your time”
“You were so brave putting your face in today!”
Celebrating small wins – like jumping in without hesitation or floating with noodles – builds long-term confidence.
3. Encourage Water Play in Nature (Safely!)
We’re lucky in Oxfordshire to have access to some beautiful natural spaces. While it’s important to follow all safety guidance around open water, supervised splashing in places like Abbey Meadows Water Park in Abingdon can help children feel at ease outside the swimming pool environment.
➡ Find out more about Abbey Meadows
Always follow safety guidelines from the RNLI when near rivers, lakes, or open water.
4. Read Books About Swimming
Stories about water and swimming can make the experience feel more familiar and fun. A few parent favourites include:
Maisy Learns to Swim by Lucy Cousins
Whale in a Fishbowl by Troy Howell
Peppa Goes Swimming for younger readers
Books are a great way to introduce new swimmers to the idea of lessons, floats, goggles, and games.
5. Choose the Right Swimwear & Equipment
Wearing the right swimwear can help your child feel more confident and comfortable. If your little one gets cold easily, try a shorty wetsuit or neoprene top, especially in cooler pools.
We recommend:
➡ Decathlon Oxford – affordable kids' swim gear
Bonus tip: let your child choose their goggles or costume – it can be a simple way to boost excitement before a lesson!
6. Stay Consistent with Lessons
One of the best ways to support your child’s progress is through regular, structured swimming lessons. At Ripple Kids Swim School, we offer lessons at:
Kingfisher School Pool (Radley Road, Abingdon, OX14 3RR)
Abingdon School Sports Centre (Faringdon Road, Abingdon, OX14 1BQ)
Both pools offer warm water, shallow areas, and small class sizes to ensure children feel supported at every stage.
7. Keep the Conversation Going
After each lesson, ask open-ended questions like:
“What did you enjoy today?”
“What do you want to try next time?”
“Did you see anyone doing something cool in the water?”
This helps your child reflect on what they’ve learned and stay motivated for the next swim.
We’re With You Every Step of the Way
Supporting your child’s swimming journey is about more than just the strokes – it’s about building trust, confidence, and lifelong safety around water. We’re here to help, whether it’s your first lesson or your fifth term.
If you’d like advice on which class suits your child, or tips for supporting them at home, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our friendly team is always happy to help.
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