When They’re Not Ready to Let Go: Supporting Your Child’s Transition Into the Water

When will my baby learn to swim

Starting swimming lessons should be an exciting time—but for some children, especially those with sensory sensitivities, it can be challenging and emotionally overwhelming. If you’ve recently enrolled your little one in swim classes only to find that they’re not quite ready to enter the water without you, please know: you are not alone.

At Bubble’n’Kick Swim School, we believe every child’s swim journey is unique—and that includes the pace they take.

"We recently enrolled our child into swimming lessons, at another swim school he just turned 3. After just a few lessons, he won’t get in the water without one of us. He does have some sensory sensitivity, so we’re not overly surprised. However we are hoping to find a more personalised approach might help him join small group lessons and eventually swim independently - we just aren't seeing this at our current swim school"

Sensory Sensitivities in the Pool

Children with sensory differences often feel:

• Overwhelmed by the environment (echoes, splashes, temperature shifts)

• Uneasy with transitions like leaving your arms and entering a new space

• Distressed by tactile sensations such as water on the face, wet hair, or pool smells

These aren’t misbehaviours—they’re responses to a world that feels “louder” or less predictable.

We’ve worked with many children who need a little more support early on—and we have several options available to nurture comfort, trust, and eventual independence:

Our teacher provide a personalised support - specifically in our 1:1 however there is still opportunity within our group classes due to small class structures.

We can create short trial sessions—perhaps just sitting on the edge, blowing bubbles, or even watching. It’s all progress.

While we aim to have children independent prior to 3, we recognise some need a longer runway. Our instructors can work alongside you and your child—gradually transitioning you out of the pool over several sessions.

If group settings feel too overwhelming, one-on-one sessions can offer focused, sensory-sensitive teaching in a low-pressure environment. Often just a few 1:1s unlock the confidence to join a small group.

We prioritise emotional safety alongside skill development. Our goal isn’t just swimming—it’s confidence, resilience, and joy in the water.

With the right support and environment, most children—sensory-sensitive or not—do make the transition to swimming independently. Some do it in weeks; others take longer. What matters most is that they feel safe, understood, and encouraged every step of the way.

Please speak to our team about creating a personalised plan for your child. We are here to listen, support, and adjust our program to give your little swimmer the best chance to thrive.

Contact us today to discuss a trial session or to meet one of our gentle instructors. Ask us about our transition plans, 1:1 sessions, or parent-assisted pathways.💦 Let’s make swimming a positive part of your child’s world—together.

At Bubble’n’Kick, we don’t just teach swimming. We build confidence—one child at a time.