From Guppies to Goldfish

I've mentioned in earlier posts about enrolling Connor in a 2-week introductory swim class at Houston Swim Club (HSC). He and his best buddy, Benjamin, just completed their "Guppy" lessons and their progress has been amazing! HSC does an incredible job of focusing on water safety by teaching young kids to float on their backs in the water.

After 2 weeks of 30-minute classes each day, Connor and Benjamin were both floating independently and have also learned many other swimming skills. They have now both graduated to the "Goldfish" level and will soon be taking additional classes to continue their progress. I'm hoping to enroll Connor in another 2-week class in July (I'll be a little too busy before then!) and by then he should be able to pass the "Float Test." This is where he'll get thrown in the water in the middle of the pool, roll onto his back, and then float for safety until he reaches the edge of the pool. Talk about peace of mind for Mommy and Daddy!

Below are some pics and video showing off Connor's new skills. (For much better video quality, scroll down and click on the links to the same videos posted on YouTube.)

Connor was so excited to have Mommy in the audience for his last day of swim class.

Here's the boys' instructor, Mr. Josh, teaching Benjamin to lift up his chin while floating.

Connor floating on his back!
Another key skill: learning how to climb out of the side of the pool.

Mr. Josh gives Connor a high-five.

Connor proudly shows off his certificate and ribbon from Guppy graduation!

Here's a video of Connor showing off his newly developed swim/float skills.

And here he is diving for a ring and then floating to the side.