PHOTO-2024-03-15-10-37-59

My Nemo Swimming Journey: Louis & Danielle

In this blog, we speak to Louis (3.5 years) and his mum, Danielle. Louis joined Nemo Swimming’s classes over 2.5 years ago and thrived – both in and out of the water – during this time. From learning important water safety skills to meeting new friends, the benefits to both Louis and Danielle have been huge!

How old was Louis when he started Nemo Swimming classes?

Danielle: I brought Louis to his first class a few weeks before his first birthday

Louis all ready for his first swimming class at 11 months old

And how old is he now?

Danielle: 3.5 years old

How has swimming benefitted you and Louis?

Danielle: Swimming with Louis has been so beneficial to us both – and on so many different levels!

Primarily, swimming was an opportunity for Louis and I to do something together when he was a baby. Our Fridays very much revolve around swimming these days and it’s a lot more than just a class to us. Louis has also gained so much confidence in the water – it has very much been a journey and he is absolutely thriving in the water now. It’s amazing watching him going into the water on his own now he is in Nemo Pre-school classes. His listening and communication skills have developed as a result, and his swimming has come on leaps and bounds.

We understand you’ve both made some new friends as a result of swimming, too?

Danielle: Yes! We have gained an amazing group of friends throughout our swimming journey. When Louis and I went along to our first class, some of the other grown-ups in the class invited us up to the cafe for a coffee afterwards. We’ve kept in touch ever since, even though the children aren’t all in the same swimming class anymore. We still celebrate birthdays together, we go on play dates, and they’ve become such an important part of my support network.

Louis and his friends have always loved exploring the PaddlePod play areas after their swim… and Danielle and the other grown-ups have been able to enjoying bonding and catching up over a cuppa or three!

What does Louis love most about his Nemo Swimming classes?

Louis: I love swimming with my friends. I like my teachers. I love jumping in the pool and playing in the soft play with my friends after swimming.

What would you say to other parents thinking of signing their little one up to Nemo Swimming classes?

I would definitely recommend Nemo Swimming to anyone as the teachers are amazing, it’s all very organised and the pools we’ve swam at are set up with young children in mind. The staff at the venues have always been so friendly too and Louis knows them all! 

Louis goes into the water without Danielle these days – and he loves it! His confidence has soared and the classes have helped to further develop his listening and communication skills

Anything else you’d like to share?

I remember being really nervous before our first couple of lessons. I wondered how Louis would enjoy himself! It sometimes proved challenging getting out the house on time but I am so glad we persevered as Louis is now so comfortable in the water, is clearly enjoying himself, and has made some amazing friends as a result.

Sometimes young children do not always play ball and go through different phases of what they like and don’t like in the water – I am so glad we stuck it out despite this.

Start your Nemo Swimming Journey today!

Inspired by Louis’ story? Then let’s kickstart your Nemo Swimming Journey today! Paddle over to our online booking system, find a class that suits, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

Find a class

Want to do a trial first? Not a problem! We offer free taster sessions in all of our classes

Book a trial