Gold, orange, hot pink and red hues fold in with the fading green leaves from summer. The neighborhood pool adorns a black cover and the leaves trickle down, awaiting the leaf blower. Winter will settle in, and on the most frigid days, southern kids daydream of ice skating on top of a thoroughly frozen pool; of course this never actually happens. It’s better to visualize winning ribbons next summer!

Summer swim teams hibernate until May, though some swimmers choose to strengthen their skills and swim year-round. Even five-year-old children contribute to the scores for their local teams. Coaches and parents observe their journey down one length of the pool. Sometimes a coach may even jump into the water and coax a little one to swim to the end where we celebrate their success!

So, how do children effectively transition from feeble, beginners into strong, safe swimmers?EAST COBB AUTHOR PROMOTES SWIM SAFETY 1

“During my years as a swim instructor, I discovered that their success largely depends on natural instincts and parental help. Parents often asked what games I used to effectively teach swimmers. Their curiosity inspired me to describe these games within my books, “Swim Games” and “How to Swim Like a Mermaid”, says Author Aileen Swartz.

I believe imagination can unlock a child’s mind and stimulate them to discover real life skills. Swim safety is my passion, so in my books I’ve approached swim instruction from a creative angle.

“How to Swim Like a Mermaid” launches into the story of a mermaid and girl befriending each other and trading swim secrets. Watercolor illustrations, done by the author herself, are placed to help visualize the techniques. The book details games that are proven to build efficient swimmers. Adults may reference instructive tips in her book included at the end.

“I enjoy playing in the pool with my children as we work on swim skills. This special bonding time lets us be silly and relaxed together. Children love playing swim games; it’s like stealthily adding zucchini to their muffins!”, says Aileen.

Aileen moved to East Cobb five years ago. “One of the most exciting opportunities in our community is the existence of summer swim teams! I know firsthand that this is not always the case in other cities. We value the coaches’ instruction, and the kids especially enjoy the team camaraderie, competition, and swim meet snacks!”, says the author.

You can join Aileen’s readers’ club for updates on projects and find various parenting tips on her site: www.aileenswartz.com.

“Teach Your Pirate to Swim, Before He Has to Walk the Plank” is her most recent project. She also writes fiction for middle grade and young children and is working on a Kindle Vella series entitled “The Jills were Bad”.

“How to Swim Like A Mermaid” and “Swim Games” make excellent educational gifts for children ages 3-7. The print and eBook versions are available through Amazon, Kindle, and Nook.