Your ear-to-ear smile soon fades into a subtle glance of fear. No longer do these five year olds look thrilled for a dip in the pool; they soon realize that their freedom is restricted. Once they end the struggle of sunscreen on the face, the battle of getting into the cold water to be bossed around has yet to begin. Their splashes in the water are your cue. It's go time!
This is your make-or-break moment of determining what kind of teacher you are going to be. A short evaluation of the group takes place' getting to know names, how old they are, and their water abilities. Are they willing to listen or do they want to swim behind you and play? How are you going to keep them together? Is your tactic to scare them to death or befriend them? Are you ready to be splashed in the face?
Through the years I have been able to get to know the kids in a matter of minutes; which kids need constant attention, who has confidence, who has too much confidence, and how you are going to get these kids across the pool in only two weeks. By trial and error, I have made myself to be the approachable teacher that can make lessons less of a chore and more friendly while still keeping it serious and professional. Of course, every teacher is different. Overall, it is important to be diligent, yet kind. If you are too friendly, the kids will take advantage of it. They learn how to push your buttons in hope of you giving up and letting them leave early. Some of these kids are ruthless in persisting to end the lessons early; they will do anything, even try to tear your suit from your body. Yes, I have experienced this in my early days of work. No matter how you decide to coach or teach, remember that even though it is a job and can be stressful, the most important thing is to make it a safe and fun environment for everyone.
