problem with head when breathing

Question
hi, i've been taking lessons for what seems like forever. i've been a slow learner, but considering it took me like 4 lessons to learn how to float, i'm at a point where i do some free style. but i am able to do a few strokes , because i either get water up my nose, mouth, or get out of breath. so all my instructors have told me that my head is not all the way in and when i lift to breathe, i lift it up, vs. cocking my head to the side, with my ear in the water, to breathe? how can i get this right? just practice? or some other pointers?

my second question is my fear of the deep end. any pointers on treading water?  

Answer
Hi Sara,
I have been asked this question many times throughout my time teaching swimming.  It's a great question!  I will try to give you a couple of ways to practice breathing.  The easiest way is to find yourself a nice quiet place on the side of the pool and grab the edge.  Place your face in the water and turn your head as though you are trying to look over your shoulder.  The general idea is to only lift your head out of the water far enough to get your mouth out.  Your ear should remain in the water.  It may help you to get a pair of googles.  I like to look to the side each time I take a breath but the chlorine can often be bothersom. The other way that I encourage students to breath is after they have mastered the side of the pool technique is to grab a kickboard and just kick accross the pool while turning your head and taking a breath.  This way you do not have to worry about coordination with your arms at the same time. The coordination will come with practice and I think you will be plesantly surprised as to how quickly these two come together once you have mastered the breathing.  The most important thing to remember is to be patient with yourself!

Now onto the deep water. I think once you are comfortable with the crawl stroke that you will begin to become more comfortable with the deep end.  You are in the same situation as many of my former students.  Apprehension in the deep water is very normal.  There are many techniques for treading water.  I would try to practice them in about 5 feet and then once you pick a way of treading that is comfortable for you try to tread in water that is just a little deeper each time you practice.  I personally like to teach the egg beater style of treading.  It's easier then trying to bicycle in the water and I find easier to float.  You might also try to take a noodle or a kickboard into the deep section until you feel comfortable trying to let go.  You can keep it near you for comfort if you wish.

I wish you luck! You can do it.
Kate