My Nemo Swimming Journey: Nate & Paige
Before she became an instructor, Paige was a Nemo Swimming customer – just like you! She started bringing her eldest child, Noah, swimming when he was just 2-years-old. They both loved it, and seeing Noah progress inspired her to start bringing Noah’s little brother, Nate, from an even earlier age. It’s Nate’s story that we are going to be exploring in this blog. Want to find out how Nate’s swimming journey compares to his older brother’s? Then check out Noah’s story here!
How old was Nate when you started bringing him to Nemo Swimming classes?
Paige: He was just 3-months old. My older son, Noah, didn’t start until he was 2-years-old. Seeing the benefits, I was determined that baby number 2 was going to start earlier.
How old is Nate now?
He’s just turned 3 and has recently moved into Nemo Pre-school lessons, where he is going into the water on his own – a huge step for him (and me!).
Tell us a bit about Nate and his experiences in Nemo Swimming classes
Paige: Nate doesn’t interact with adults – barely looks at them, never mind talks to them. So, it was amazing to see him interact with Ashleigh. They built up a lovely little relationship and it was so lovely to see his personality – and his cheekiness – come out in class!
I was very nervous when Nate moved to Nemo Pre-school classes as, in our case, that move meant changing teachers – so two completely new faces for him. On his first pre-school lesson, Zoe came up and held out her hand for him. He took it and walked down the poolside with her… just like that! He sat, he listened, he laughed, he played and he beamed when he came out at the end. I was so proud of him and so appreciative of the teachers who made that happen.
What benefits have you and Nate seen as a result of attending swimming classes?
Paige: The big one for me has got to be sleep! We used to get a 2-hour nap out of him after his classes when he was a baby… I miss those days! Since he dropped the night feeds, he’s been a solid 12-hour sleeper.
What does Nate love most about his classes?
Paige: The games, especially if they involve animals! He came out of his lesson the other day telling me that he was an elephant rolling around and trying to hide in the water to get away from the naughty crocodiles. His imagination really comes to life in these sessions.
What would you say to other parents thinking of signing their baby, toddler or pre-school child up to Nemo Swimming classes?
Paige: The classes aren’t just for your child – they are for you, too! Your child learns an important life skill from a very young age but it’s a really social class and you can meet other parents with babies around the same age, going through the same stuff you’re going through. I’ve loved watching Nate grow up with his swimming friends.
It’s also a 30 minute break in your day where you can spend some quality time with your little one while making new friends for you both. Best thing I’ve done… and I oved it so much I decided to train as a swimming teacher!
Start your Nemo Swimming Journey today!
Inspired by Nate’s 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.
Want to do a trial first? Not a problem! We offer free taster sessions in all of our classes