Coaches' Message

Coach’s Message to Parents of Children Who Choose to Swim

My child wants to be a swimmer. How often should my child train?”

This is one of the most frequently asked questions by parents.

The answer is quite complex and is affected by many factors including:

• Age
• Stage of development
• Swimming background
• Physical development
• The child’s swim aspirations and goals
• The child’s commitment
• Individual differences including gender
• The family’s support

A good swim program will have stages and levels through which a child can achieve outcomes and progress to the next level over a period of time. The main factors to consider are:

• The frequency of training;
• The duration of the training session;
• The activities within the program and
• The nature of competition.

It is important to realise that a child will only achieve particular standards or outcomes as a result of committing to the frequency, duration and activities in the program over an extended period of time. Such programs are identified as Multi Year Training Plans and offer a guide for parents to assist their child to being an independent and successful swimmer.

Parents, when providing guidance for their child should realise that they need to support their child’s efforts regarding their participation in competitive swimming. Encouragement, congratulations for achievements and awareness of your child’s feelings are important aspects to foster. External pressure, comparisons with other swimmers and criticising your child are aspects to avoid.

All your efforts and guidance should be directed toward allowing your child to develop independence to enjoy his/her achievements in swimming.”

Jason Cooper
Director of Swimming