How to Be a Swim Parent

If your child has recently begun swimming in an age-group swim club, you may be wondering what your role is. This article will address what your job is in supporting your child's active participation in swimming.

Don't Get Overwhelmed

When first entering this sport, it can be a bit overwhelming for parents and swimmers alike. The first thing that you should do is introduce yourself to some of the other parents. Veteran parents will be able to show you the ropes. If your swim club has a website, check out what is has to offer. Most websites will keep you updated on what is going on within the club, as well as external links to articles that will teach you more about the sport.

Let the Coach Do the Coaching

Many sports recruit unpaid, parents to coach. Age-group swimming, however, does not. Coaches are trained and are paid to do their job. Please let them accomplish this goal without your interference. If parents and coaches give swimmers contradicting advice, the swimmers will become confused. Your child needs your support. Swimmers will be critiqued by the coaches after every swim. Your job is to make your child feel great not only after a good swim, but also after a bad one. All swimmers excel at different rates. Give your child the time he or she needs to reach his or her goals.

Get Involved

Swim clubs are run by the parents. Swim parents serve in many different roles. The members on the swim club's board are all parents. These parents are responsible for the governing all issues dealing with staffing, finances, and club activities. The officials working at swim meets are all parents of swimmers. These parents have taken training to be able to work in the position. Swim parents are also responsible for every other job at home swim meets, from timing events to concessions to running the clerk of course. You may wish to try out many different jobs to decide what you enjoy doing the most, but be prepared to take an active role in your child's sport.

Ensure That Your Child Enjoys the Sport

Because swim parents take such an active role in the sport, some may forget what brought them into the role in the first place: a child with a desire to swim. Talk with your child frequently about his or her feelings about swimming. If your child continues to enjoy swimming, then the sky is the limit. However, if your child looses interest, it may be time to look into other activities that he or she will more actively enjoy.