The Day I Realized Swim Lessons Were About So Much More Than Swimming
An honest moment from a mom, instructor, and fierce believer in water safety.
It was a Tuesday morning, just before lessons began. I was sipping coffee out of a cup I’d reheated twice, balancing the chaos of mom life and my gear bag. My girls were playing nearby, one of them pretending to "teach" her stuffed bunny how to float.
I smiled, but something in me paused.
Because just a few years ago, I was the mom on the pool deck, stomach in knots, praying I was doing the right thing.
I remember watching my oldest daughter during her first swim lesson. She cried. I cried. She clung to the instructor, unsure of the water, unsure of what was happening. My heart ached.
But what I didn’t know then—and what I’ve seen over and over again since—is that those hard first days are where bravery begins.
Behind Every Survival Swim is a Story
Every child who climbs into the pool brings a story: a new sibling at home, a fear of water, a strong-willed streak, or maybe no fear at all—which can be even more dangerous.
And every parent? They bring love, hope, and sometimes a little fear too. Fear of drowning, fear of doing it wrong, fear of pushing their child too far—or not far enough.
I’ve had moms whisper to me, "I'm not sure I can watch today," or ask through tears, "Is this normal?"
It is. All of it.
This Is About More Than Swimming
It’s about the day your child learns that they can do hard things.
It’s about the moment they float for the first time, and you realize that float could one day save their life.
It’s about building confidence brick by brick—sometimes through tears, but always with love.
This work matters to me because I’ve seen what can happen in seconds near water.
And because I’ve seen the miracles that can happen in 10 minutes a day, over just a few short weeks.
Why I Keep Showing Up
I’m not just your child’s instructor.
I’m a mom too. I’ve been scared. I’ve questioned myself. I’ve held my breath.
But now, I get to be the one whispering, “She’s okay. He’s stronger than you think. Just wait. You’ll be amazed.”
And every time your little one kicks off the wall, holds their breath, or rests in their float with confidence, I celebrate with you. Because I know what it took to get there.
From My Family to Yours
Thank you for trusting me. Thank you for letting me be part of your child's journey—not just to water safety, but to independence, courage, and growth.
You're doing an incredible job.
And someday, when you see your child jump in and roll to float like it's second nature, I hope you take a deep breath and think, "We did that."
Because you did.
With all my heart,
Ryanna
Mom of 2 | Certified ISR Instructor | Rhody Little Swimmers
