Kids in the main pool at Ladner Leisure Centre swim on their backs.

Social Story: Going to Swimming Lessons

Is this your first time at swimming lesson?

Read about what you can expect when jumping into the pool for the very first time.

What’s Happening

I am going to swimming lessons at one of Delta's pools. I will learn to swim safely and have fun in the water.

A mom and daughter enjoy swimming in the winskill teach pool.

Where

The pool is inside the recreation centre. 

I will go to the change room, get ready, and meet my instructor by the pool. 

A pair of Delta lifeguards stand in front of the Ladner Leisure Centre main pool.

Who

My instructor and lifeguards will be there to help me. 

There will be other children learning too.

A swim teacher at Sungod Recreation Centre takes attendance.

Steps

  1. Arrive and go to the change room and put on my swimsuit.
  2. Have a quick shower to help keep the pool clean.
  3. Walk carefully to the pool.
  4. There are signs on the wall showing the swim levels. I will wait by my level.
  5. Listen to my instructor.
  6. Practice floating, kicking, and swimming.
  7. When class is over, I will shower and get dressed in the changeroom.
Students in the teach pool at Sungod listen to their instructor.

Sensory Expectations

The pool area might be warm. 

There might be splashing sounds and echoes.

A toy watering can and small plastic boats sit on top of a blue turtle-shaped kickboard by the edge of the Winskill Teach Pool.

Safety Rules

  • Always walk, don’t run.
  • Wait for the instructor before getting into the water.
  • I will stay with the class.
A student stands in a lifejacket on the corner of the Sungod dive tank.

Feelings & Coping

It’s okay if I’m unsure at first. 

I can take deep breaths, hold the wall, or tell my instructor how I feel.

 

Two students start their lessons in the Winskill teach pool.

Closure

I did my best and learned something new today. 

I can’t wait for my next swimming lesson!

Two students enjoy a mat ride in a swimming lesson at Winskill.