Every single one of my four children knows how to swim and play some sports like football, badminton and skateboarding. In fact, every kid should at least play a few sports because character building starts from sports. It teaches them teamwork, confidence, determination and other positive qualities that will give them a headstart.

Basically, for swimming we started with allowing them to play in the kiddies pool. The most important thing is to watch over them carefully, ensuring that they are not traumatized by any sudden splashes of water. Next is to make sure that we ourselves are not the panicky kind of parents. Kids pick up our bad vibes easily and they can sense any feelings from us.

As for the other sports, we started with playing balls with them as soon as they can walk. It is a good way to get the kids to learn to walk and run on the green, grassy field as it is a healthy exercise as well.

So, how do I get my children to swim or do any kind of sports? We provide them the opportunities to try out new sports and games and allow them space to master them. When my children see the trend of skateboarding, they too wanted to be involve in this sport and it takes a lot of courage to do all the skateboarding tricks.

Meanwhile, my little boy loves badminton and will pester my hubby to play badminton with him in the evenings. He has these rosy cheeks after a good game and the little man comes home feeling proud that he has played a good game. This also teaches him to be disciplined, have good manners and competitive.

Like all the other sports, I think swimming is the best activities because they to be courageous, responsible and adventurous. Beside that, playing sports together is also a good time for family bonding as well. We had shared so many funny moments in the pool, at the field and the skatepark.

I think this will also lift off some worries when they have to venture away from home on their school trips or other activities. Knowing that they can somehow swim and deal with playing a game with others is a lot comforting. The children will inevitably go somewhere far away from us on scout camps, school field trips or national service. We can rest assured that should they be asked to do any , they will be alright with them.

In conclusion, do not make playing sport or swimming as a lesson but instead, a play time for the whole family.