I Want My Mama!!!

I probably heard this wail at least 50 times at Ashby's first swim lesson yesterday, as well as 'get me out of here!' a billion times.  Out of the 30 minute class, she cried probably 29 of those minutes. I wish I was kidding.  It was not a pretty sight.

Ashby is very attached to me.  If I'm around, she wants to be near me, wants me to 'pick my up please', and pretty much does not want me to leave her sight.  So when it came time to start swim lessons, I knew that I was not going to be able to do a mommy & tot class with her.  My fear was that if I got in the water with her, I'd never get out!  And that once she turned 3 & was allowed to go into a group class, she wouldn't want to go since she has been with me for so long.

So, I've chosen to put her in private lessons with Kennedy for a bit.  I figured some one on one attention would be good for her until she gets comfortable in the water (and being away from me).  Plus if big sister was with her, I felt that would put her at ease too.

Boy, was I WRONG!

Like I said, she screamed & cried for almost the entire lesson.  Poor Kennedy even said that she enjoyed her class with Teacher Sophia except for all of Ashby's crying.  I was so sad (and a bit embarrassed) to see her so upset.  But, learning how to swim is a MUST in our house & quitting is not an option.  And the longer that I delay starting her in swim lessons, the harder it is going to be for her.  Harder to get comfortable in the water & harder to be away from me.

So, we will forge on.  Day 2 of swim lessons is tomorrow.  Let's pray that it is slightly better than yesterday's lesson...for all parties involved!