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[quote=Anonymous]Google "YMCA swim stages" to get a breakdown of skill order. I'm sure there are also YouTube videos. The general progression is swim starters (getting comfortable in the water), swim basics (body position, kicking, arms), and swim strokes. At 4 and 5, you will be focusing on swim basics. Your kids should practice all of the pieces separately, such as going under all the way, controlled breathing (bubbles), bobbing, kicking on edge or with a kick board, floating (front and back), different arm movement, rocket gliding. Focus on "playing" with them in the water a LOT, rather than "teaching them to swim". They have to build up muscles in their arms and legs before they will actually be able to swim freely.

Get some pool noodles for sure - they can be used to support the body in different ways. Under the arms and they can tread water where it is deeper, under the neck to support a backfloat. Under the hips and they can do breaststroke arms. Holding in front with arms straight and they practice gliding, kicking, and alternating freestyle arms. Kickboards are useful, but the noodle will work too. Get some diving toys. Get swim goggles! Having their eyes protected and being able to look under water makes kids more comfortable with putting their full face in. Do not get any type of floaties or swim vests. The artificial buoyancy means the kids don't learn how to position their bodies. If you kids have skinny legs and tiny feet, I've found that fins can help with teaching how to flutter kick and build up leg strength. They have to be able to move water in order to propel themselves forward.

Have fun!

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