My First Swim Lesson Feels Big book cover

A picture book about a first swim lesson

My First Swim Lesson Feels Big

Maya likes bath bubbles, rain puddles and sprinklers. A big swimming pool feels different. On the way to her first lesson, she wonders how much she will be ready to try.

Dad stays close, and Ms. Lily makes room for Maya to watch. Maya touches the water, dips her toes and asks whether she can stop if she needs to. After a short break, she returns and stands in the shallow water with her teacher beside her.

Maya does not do everything in one lesson. Later, she draws the pool and one small step. The next visit may still feel big, but today’s beginning is worth remembering.

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Before an unfamiliar activity

Parents and caregivers can share Maya’s story before a lesson or at another quiet reading time. Follow what she notices about the building, sounds and water, then leave room for a question or simply another page.

For teachers and swim instructors

Use the story to invite conversation about meeting an unfamiliar adult, watching first and asking for a pause. Talk separately with the actual instructor about supervision, lesson arrangements and pool rules.

  • What did Maya want to know before trying more?
  • What did Dad and Ms. Lily say when Maya needed time?

Questions before a new experience

Milo’s Fire Drill Plan takes place at school rather than a pool. Like Maya, Milo has questions for a trusted adult before an experience that feels big.