25 Jun 5 Signs Your Child Might Be Anxious About Swimming
Swimming is an important life skill, but not every child takes to the water with ease. For some, it’s an exciting new adventure, while for others it can be a source of anxiety or fear. If your child is struggling with confidence in the water, or has had a difficult experience in a swimming lesson, it’s important to know you’re not alone. At Brightwater Swim School, we regularly work with nervous swimmers and understand that building water confidence takes time, patience, and the right environment. Here are five common signs your child might be anxious about swimming, and how a change of setting can help.
1. They Show Physical Symptoms Before Their Swimming Lesson
One of the most overlooked signs of anxiety in young children is the appearance of physical symptoms. If your child regularly complains of a tummy ache, headache or suddenly feels “too tired” just before a swimming lesson, there’s a good chance that nerves are at play. These symptoms are very real to your child, even if they stem from emotional discomfort. It’s the body’s way of expressing a feeling that your child may not yet have the words to explain. Rather than dismiss these complaints, it’s important to recognise them as possible indicators of swimming-related stress and to consider whether the current lesson setting is helping them feel at ease.
2. They Refuse to Get in the Pool or Cling to You
A child who is reluctant to get into the pool, clings to you at the side, or becomes visibly upset when lessons begin is likely feeling overwhelmed or unsafe in their current swimming environment. This is particularly common among younger children or those who have not had much water exposure. The transition from the side of the pool to the water can feel like a big leap, especially if previous lessons moved too quickly or lacked the right emotional support.
What these children need is time, patience, and an instructor who understands the importance of building trust. At Brightwater, our lessons are paced gently and tailored to each child’s comfort level, helping them grow in confidence step by step.
3. They’ve Had a Negative Swimming Lesson
Not all swim schools are the same, and unfortunately, a previous negative experience can leave a lasting impression. If your child was in a large class where they didn’t feel seen, was pushed to try something before they were ready, or simply didn’t connect with the instructor, it can knock their confidence. These kinds of setbacks can make children fearful of trying again, even if they once enjoyed swimming. A change of setting can make all the difference. At Brightwater, we pride ourselves on our supportive, encouraging environment with smaller class sizes and experienced instructors who are used to working with nervous swimmers. We focus on rebuilding confidence and helping children rediscover the joy of being in the water.
4. They Say They Don’t Like Swimming (When They Used To)
It can be confusing and disheartening for parents when a child who used to love swimming suddenly declares they hate it. Often, this shift in attitude is a sign that something has shaken their confidence, for example perhaps a slip in the pool, feeling out of their depth, or a lesson that felt too intense. Young children may not always be able to explain the root of their feelings, but a change in behaviour is often the best clue. Rather than assuming they’ve lost interest, it’s worth exploring whether the issue is actually anxiety. A positive and reassuring environment, where they feel heard and supported, can help them reframe their experience and begin to rebuild their trust in the water.
5. They Worry About Being ‘Behind’ Their Peers
It’s not uncommon for children, especially those who are a little older or more aware of others around them, to feel embarrassed or frustrated if they perceive themselves as being “behind” their peers. Comments like “I’m rubbish at swimming” or “everyone else is better than me” can point to feelings of inadequacy. In settings where group progress is prioritised over individual development, children can feel left out or overlooked. That’s why, at Brightwater, we place great importance on recognising and celebrating each child’s personal progress. No matter how small the step, it matters we find children thrive when they feel noticed and encouraged at their own pace.
Final Thoughts
If your child is showing signs of anxiety about swimming, know that it doesn’t mean they’ll never enjoy the water. With the right support, gentle encouragement, and a change in environment, most children can learn to feel confident and capable again. At Brightwater Swim School in Harrogate, York and Cundall, we welcome nervous swimmers with open arms. Our team is experienced in helping children overcome fear and rediscover the fun of swimming, one splash at a time.
If you’d like to talk to us about your child’s needs or arrange a trial session, we’re here to help. You can get in touch with us via email: info@brightwaterswim.co.uk or use our contact form here.
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