FOR PARENTS

ONE

Handling disappointment.

Life will be full of disappointments and it’s how we react that matters. If our swimmer misses their goal, do they give up? Or, do they fight back and try harder? Our own behavior matters at meets, too. We’re role modeling for our children on how to act.

TWO

Hard work.

A single race is just one moment of your swimmer’s day-to-day work in the pool. At a meet, they may be rewarded for their hard work, improvement on specific skills and mental toughness. Or, it may not all come together on a specific day, but happen at a later time. Swimming teaches our kids to work and have patience to reap rewards.

THREE

Positive attitude.

Our attitude is under our control and can be the most influential aspect of success or failure. Learning to get rid of negative self-talk will help our kids throughout their lives. A positive attitude can help a swimmer shake off a bad race and move on to a better one. Being positive is infectious and can spread throughout the team.

FOUR

Accountability.

Through swim practice and going to meets, children will learn that their actions have outcomes. A swimmer who has missed a lot of practice, whether it’s due to other priorities or an injury, will have realistic expectations. They won’t expect a best time if they know their training hasn’t been consistent. If they’ve been working hard and doing all they can to improve, they know they have earned their reward through their own effort.

FIVE

Enjoy the moments.

The time being a swim parent will end. Sharing car rides, meals and laughs are memories you’re creating. You’ll look back and remember these little things more than any particular race. Embrace your moments as a swim family and make the most out of your time together.

What life lessons have swim meets taught your family?