We’ve got a sub!
Our teachers are committed to their students. Consistent attendance is part of their job description. However, life happens…people get sick, school gets harder, weddings, funerals, etc. Life events are important, and we encourage our staff to be well rounded so that they will feel fulfilled and energized at work.
While consistency is key to your child’s swim progress, flexibility is a valuable life lesson that can be learned in swim class. So when you get one of those “Substitute Swim Instructor” emails, don’t immediately start worrying. Help teach your child the power of positivity and flexibility!
Parents are a key piece of the puzzle when it comes to celebrating subs. Verbal and physical feedback can immediately set the tone for your little whale. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts for parents:
DO:
- “Oh look Jack, you get to swim with a new teacher today! Let’s see if we can spot him in the pool.”
- “It looks like Ms. Allison is sick today. I wonder if your substitute teacher likes Disney as much as Ms. Allison…let’s ask her!”
- “What an exciting day! We get to swim with a different teacher. I wonder if she’s friends with Mr. Ky…”
DON’T:
- “Oh no…..it looks like Ms. Jessica is sick today…don’t worry. You don’t have to swim if you don’t want to.”
- “Uh oh, Ms. Lexi isn’t here today.”
- “Ms. Chelsea isn’t here? Great…just great…” (insert body language and tone)
- Trying new techniques
- Being flexible and adaptable
- Exposure to different personalities