4 Year Old Hates Getting Face Wet in Swimming Class

We've enrolled my 4 yr old in swim lessons before, and all was dandy until she had to get her face wet! She cried like a banshee the rest of the time. Needless to say, we could not progress with the class because she'd cry every time her face got wet.

There's another season coming up in January, and I'd like her to try again. But I'm afraid we'll stagnate again because of the above-mentioned issue. Are there any ways you can make one 'get over' the fact it's ok to wet the face? Even in the shower she hates it. Thanks!!!!!!!

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M.M. answers from Chicago on December 02, 2009

Have you used any diving toys?....toys that sink to the bottom. They have all sorts...fish, marine mammals, cartoon like figures etc. You might need to look online or at specialty shops since water toys are off season. Introduce the toys in the shallow water while gradually increasing the depth with her comfort level. When you give her the toys, make a big deal out of them. Big package, brightly colored wrapping, shiny bow etc. Good luck!

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M.A. answers from Chicago on December 02, 2009

Hi-

You should try swim goggles. Both of my children were the same way. My daughter spent an entire year in the beginning swim class because she wouldn't put her face in the water. Swim goggles (and a good swim school) made a huge difference. She now LOVES swimming, and is learning how to swim the butterfly (she's not even 8). My son had the same issue as well. We even tried the goggles in the shower, but it's not practical for hair washing, so we have a handheld shower head and give them dry washcloths to cover their eyes/faces. Showers are still hard, but they both love swimming now.

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D.N. answers from Chicago on December 03, 2009

I agree with my fellow poster about the goggles. My daughter also refused to put her face in the water until we got child sized goggles. I got mine at Kiefers Swim Shop in Naperville. She loves her lessons now and has advanced to the next level. I hope that helps.

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