As swimming teachers, we understand that some skills can feel intimidating for children, especially those just beginning their journey in the water. Skills such as blowing bubbles, getting their faces wet, or swimming to the pool’s edge for safety can seem daunting. But what if we could transform these moments into playful, meaningful adventures?
The Magic of Storytelling in Swimming Lessons

Why Stories Are Effective in Swimming Lessons
Stories capture attention, spark imagination, and create emotional connections—all essential elements when working with children in the pool. By framing swimming skills as part of a larger narrative, children become active participants in a story rather than passive learners in a lesson. This approach is rooted in the educational philosophy of Charlotte Mason, who championed the use of “living books” and immersive learning experiences.
When we introduce skills through storytelling, we turn apprehension into curiosity, fear into excitement, and practice into play. Engaging children through relatable characters and scenarios makes learning more enjoyable and effective.
Introducing Slippy the Snake and Wavy the Fish
The story of Slippy the Snake and Wavy the Fish, written by Helen, is a perfect example of how storytelling can enhance swimming lessons. Slippy, a curious little snake, is nervous about trying something new—swimming. With encouragement from his water-dwelling friend, Wavy, Slippy learns to:
Blow bubbles to make the water feel less intimidating.
Dip his face in the water and discover the fun of being part of the pond.
Move slowly and then faster, exploring how his body can glide through water.
Change directions, developing coordination and control.
Swim to the edge, learning an essential safety skill.
Slippy’s journey mirrors what many children experience in their first lessons. They may feel nervous initially, but with encouragement, they begin to trust the water, themselves, and their teacher.
How to Bring the Story to Life in Lessons
Here’s how you can incorporate Slippy and Wavy’s adventure into your swimming lessons:
Start with Story Time
Begin your lesson by reading the start of the story poolside or even while sitting in the water with the children. You can use a toy snake or fish to make the characters come alive and create an immersive experience.
Pause for Activities
As you read, pause the story to guide children through each activity:
Blowing Bubbles: Encourage them to blow bubbles like Slippy, starting above the water before dipping their faces in.
Floating and Moving Slowly: Help them glide gently through the water, mimicking Slippy’s slow, slithery movements.
Fast Movements: Build excitement as they wiggle quickly, like Slippy getting braver.
Changing Directions: Practice turning left and right, similar to Slippy exploring the pond.
Swimming to the Edge: Reinforce safety by having them swim to the pool’s edge, just like Slippy learned to find a safe spot.
Create Emotional Connections
Discuss how Slippy felt at different points in the story. Ask questions like, “Have you ever felt nervous trying something new?” or “How did it feel when you succeeded?” This helps children process their emotions and build confidence.
Revisit and Expand
Repeat the story across several lessons, focusing on different skills each time. Encourage children to “help” Slippy on his next adventure by trying new activities themselves. This not only reinforces learning but also strengthens their engagement.
Why This Storytelling Approach Stands Out
Traditional swimming lessons often rely on repetition and drills, which can feel mechanical and uninspiring for young learners. In contrast, storytelling offers a fresh perspective. It transforms the pool into a place of imagination and discovery, where skills are taught in context and emotions are addressed with care.
Children learn better when they feel safe, engaged, and connected—and stories like Slippy the Snake and Wavy the Fish achieve all three. By using engaging narratives, teachers can help children embrace challenges with excitement rather than fear.
Final Thoughts for Swimming Teachers
Incorporating stories into swimming lessons doesn’t merely teach skills; it creates experiences that children will remember and cherish. You’re not just helping them learn to swim; you’re instilling bravery, confidence, and excitement about the water.
As teachers, we have the privilege of shaping how children perceive and experience swimming. By embracing creative, playful methods like storytelling, we can make every lesson an adventure worth taking.
The next time a nervous swimmer enters your pool, why not invite them to join Slippy and Wavy on their journey? Together, you’ll build skills, confidence, and a love for the water—one story at a time.

Join the SWIM Squad Membership!
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