As a first time mom, I've had anxiety about a lot of my baby's firsts. Baby-led-weaning, baby's first shots, baby's first night in the crib, the list could go on forever. There is so much information to learn and so many milestones to reach that it is difficult to keep track of it all and almost impossible not to worry constantly if you're doing it the right way. This is the vulnerable, raw, real side of parenting that no one really talks about! So when I thought about bringing my baby into a pool, the thought absolutely terrified me. Living in Florida, surrounded by pools and beaches though, made helping my baby learn an absolute necessity. That's where Aqua Journeys came in. I had heard about the school over the years from friends and people within the community, but my decision was absolutely solidified when my newly formed "mom group" was raving about how affordable the classes are and how much their children were learning.
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After viewing their website and reading about their packages, I was excited to learn about the Baby & Me Class, which starts as early as 3 months old! So, I took the plunge, registered my little one and we conquered the adventure together. Upon arriving at Aqua Journeys, I was amazed at the hidden gem behind the front door. They have two large heated pools, for various age groups, a retail section at the front full of swimsuits and swim accessories (some made locally), decorations and toys to make the children feel comfortable, changing stations, lifeguard chairs and music playing. While I was still nervous, I felt immediately comfortable in this environment and completely forgot about the outside world.
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The rest of my fears and reservations dissipated as soon as the instructor Susan Bekken walked in the door. Susan has worked with children her entire life, mostly at local hospitals and is certified in many areas. Her warm disposition and smile made not only me, but my daughter immediately comfortable. Once we were in the water, Susan instructed us clearly and with authority while also making everything so much fun and enjoyable. While singing, dancing and introducing toys into the water, she taught the parents:
- how to hold the babies properly
- how to reassure the babies in a positive manner
- how to assist them in floating
- how to assist them in stimulating kicks
- how to show the babies ways to extend their arms and grip bars and stairs in the water
- how to slightly submerge the babies in the water on both sides, on their backs, and with their mouths slightly submerged
- how to safely pass the babies to another adult, while signaling the baby that this was happening
- and how to teach the babies to blow bubbles in the water, which is one of the first steps of them breathing in the water, all within the first class!
In only thirty minutes, I was witnessing my child displaying skills so quickly and confidently that I could not believe what I was seeing! I knew before the class was over that we would be signing up for the next week and that this class would be essential to my child acquiring water skills that would last a lifetime.
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While we personally chose the Baby & Me Class because of my daughter's age and skill level, Aqua Journeys offers many classes that all vary in these categories. They can help you choose which class is right for your family if you are not sure where to start. Their program is based on continuous enrollment and is offered on a week-to-week basis. They "promote" their students to the next level when they feel that they are ready. While continuing the classes is a commitment in that it is necessary to build your children's skills, the week-to-week scheduling allows for payment in increments rather than one large fee and also allows for breaks or changes in schedule if necessary. The classes that they offer are as follows (in order of progression):
- Baby & Me (3 months & up)
- Infant Survival (6 months & up)
- Swim Float Swim (15 months & up)
- Maintenance Lessons (continuing learning)
- Stroke Lessons (building skills)
- Adult Lessons (ages 18 & up) *It is never too early or too late to start, but the sooner the safer!*
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(Pictured: Wall of graduates & Aqua Journey success stories)
Last week was our very first class and we both cannot wait until our next class. I will be going in with complete confidence, even with the idea of lessons being more complex each time. I genuinely wish that I had started the classes even earlier than I did. I know that Aqua Journeys is going to play a huge part in my daughter's development and I look forward to being able to attend pool parties and bring her to the beach knowing that she will be safe and have the skills that are necessary. I encourage all parents, at any stages of their parenthood to call Aqua Journeys and take this first step. The knowledge and peace of mind is priceless! We will see you there!
-Happy adventuring,
Savannah Kater, Macaroni KID Daytona Beach FL
Find information about how to enroll and read through their FAQ here.
**Aqua Journeys is closed December 17th-Jan 3rd for the holiday season but they are now booking for Jan 2022, call 386.676.9555 to reserve your spot!**
*Aqua Journeys is also offering gift packages for the holidays so you can give the gift of swim for Christmas & students can get started for the New Year! Find info here. *
