1st Swim Time

Today was Anna and my first swim time together. We headed down to the YMCA around 8:30 and learned how to check in, pick a locker, shower off and meet in the pool by 9. Anna's favorite part was the locker key. At 9, we met our instructor, Susan, who was ready to get the babies in the water. There were about 10-12 babies with their parents, they all looked about the same age as Anna (but what do I know).  Once we got in, we were told to keep the babies under the water up to their shoulders to keep them warm and hold them close so they don't get scared. Anna didn't mind the water but was clinging on for dear life. We started with kicking. I held Anna in front of me lying prone and I walked backwards so she knew that kicking moved her forward. She didn't care for this position too much since it wasn't close to mama, but she got used to it. Next we sang the wheels on the bus go 'round and 'round while we paddled our arms forward like we were swimming. Anna did good, staring at all the other kids. Next we held them prone again and showed how mommy makes bubbles with my lips and then saw if they would. Anna was about to but once again didn't like being held in that position, far away from mama. Maybe next week we'll get some bubbles. After bubbles, we learned 3 ways to hold the babies in the water, all on their back so they could feel the buoyancy of the water. Then it was free play time. Susan put out a bunch of water toys and the babies got to choose and play using the skills we learned. Anna chose a purple tug boat and we chased it all around the pool. It spent most of its time in her mouth though. Then at 9:30 we got in circle with all the babies ans sang our good-bye song. Over all, I think she had a good time. Very stoic and interested in what was going on, but I think I caught a few smirks here and there. Can't wait for next week!