Teaching Adult Swimming Lessons

Question
Hi Eric,
I am a swim instructor at a local pool, and I have recently had a few adults come to me interested in private lessons.  What kinds of techniques are out there that are ideal for teaching adults to swim?  My biggest obstacle is a middle aged woman who has a fear of the water, stemming from a near-drowning as a child.  I've taught swim lessons for years, but have never taught an adult.  I know there must be something out there that is more "grown up" than the cutesy rhymes and associations we use with the preschoolers, but I can't seem to find any help on the Web.  Any advice you can offer would be more than appreciated!
Thank you so much!

Answer
Katie,
Thank you for writing.  My personal philosophy with adult swim lessons is that we are all adults.  Treat them the same way you would want to be treated.  The same basic concepts still apply.

Here are some items that I think are important:

1.  You may want to think about the timing of the lessons.  Adults tend to be a bit more insecure when learning to swim.  Sometimes adults feel embarrassed and don't want others to see them struggling with something new.  I generally like to do these early in the morning or later at night. That way there will not be too many people around the pool.  Also, try to not do the lesson while a swim team is practicing.  It can be discouraging for the adult to see so many other swimmers who are younger and more advanced.  The timing may not be possible to work out, but it's something to think about.

2.  Be very aware of personal boundaries.  If you are in the water and need to touch the student, make sure you talk about it ahead of time.

3.  Think of using positive criticism that is constructive.  Adults don't take criticism the same way children do.  Make sure you compliment them on their spirit and determination...then make adjustments.

4.  There is no trick to teaching swimming.  I am sure you know that.  There are fundamental building blocks that build upon each other.  (You need to learn to blow water out of your nose before you learn to breath to the side.)  The same goes for adults.  Just think about how you would want to learn to swim.  Construct your lessons around that mindset.

OK, I don't know if I helped you out or not.  I don't know of any rhymes used for preschoolers with swimming.  I taught 4-5 year olds swimming and adults swimming.  I used the same principles.  I am sure you are more than qualified to do this.

I wish you the best of luck.
Eric