Swim & Gym

Last week, Kate had her first experiences with activities of her own!

First up, she had swim class.  Kate was very excited to go to swimming.  I explained everything to her beforehand, and she could not wait to get there.  We arrived a little early so that I could show her around, and she was even excited to rinse off in the shower before heading to the pool.  When we got to the pool area, we found a bubble for her to wear and sat on the bleachers to wait for the instructor.

Here she is, still excited to get started!

Kate's swim teacher came over and introduced herself to us.  Her name is Miss Courtney, and she is super friendly and warm, and she immediately made me feel comfortable.  There is one other child in the class, Maddie Ann.  Miss Courtney took both of them over to the wall, and Kate was still happy.

 Kate did great until she had to get in the water without anyone holding on to her.

 I could see the pain on her face.  It was difficult to watch, but every time she looked at me, I gave her a thumbs up and a big smile.

She held it together until Miss Courtney had her sit on the wall to wait.  She immediately ran to me, screaming and crying.  After a few minutes, she calmed down and went back in the water.  Miss Courtney promised to hold on to her and this seemed to help.

Kate has told me many times since that the pool is scary and she doesn't want to go back, but she tells everyone else (including Tom) that it was fun.  We have read a book about swimming lessons, and talked about how Miss Courtney promises to hold her and keep her safe; I'm hoping this helps her feel comfortable enough to swim again.

Kate also had her first gymnastics class.  It isn't a structured class, but more of a play group with an emphasis on gymnastics.  Kate LOVED every minute of this!  She was actually the only child there that day; she didn't mind one bit, but I hope a few more children show up for the next class.