A new swim school is helping babies and young children build their confidence in the water in Harrogate.
Baby Squids North Yorkshire launched at Ashville Sports Centre on 6th June and has since expanded its weekly lessons to include Henshaws College, Stamford Bridge and Everlast gym in York.
The school is run by Alex Mazier, a former lifesaving captain whose own childhood fear of water inspired him to help children feel comfortable in the pool from an early age.
Alex began working as an assistant swimming teacher at 16, when he was also appointed Men’s Captain of the Vale Royal Lifesaving Society.
His career has included coaching rookie lifeguards, providing private lessons and teaching beginners as old as 70.
Alex said:
“My work with adults and older children taught me that early exposure isn't just a nice thing to have, it’s vital.
“I saw firsthand how aquaphobia develops when intervention comes too late.
"I decided I could have the biggest impact by working at the very beginning of someone’s journey, helping babies and toddlers foster a positive, joyful relationship with water before fear ever has a chance to set in.”
Despite his experience as an instructor, Alex said swimming did not come easily to him as a child.
He said:
“I didn't start lessons until I was five and I was a very anxious child in the pool.
"I was much slower to develop than my peers who had started as babies.
“It took a truly kind, patient instructor to coax me away from the side and help me find my confidence.
"I want to be that teacher for families in North Yorkshire and provide a safe, calm environment where parents and children can bond while learning essential water confidence and life-saving skills.”
Baby Squids uses a child-led approach, with lessons incorporating play and songs to help children develop water confidence alongside their parents.
The North Yorkshire classes run throughout the year and include adult and child, early years and pre-school sessions, catering for children aged up to four and beyond.
Bookings are now open. Families can find out more through the Baby Squids website, email northyorkshire@babysquids.co.uk or contact Alex on WhatsApp on 07830 981039.
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