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Stories to Help Littles Overcome a Fear of Swimming & The Emler Story

By Melissa Basgall, Macaroni Kid Kansas City Kansas - Leavenworth October 4, 2019


My kiddo has been taking lessons at Emler Swim School of Westwood for about 9 months now. She started when she was barely 3 years old and couldn’t swim at all, and now look at her!



I’m so proud of her, and thankful for the amazing instructors at Emler. Today, I thought I’d share with you the “Emler” story, and also some of our favorite stories about swimming!

First, the Emler story:

Emler Swim School was founded by a woman named Jan Emler. Jan had two passions in her life as a young adult; teaching children and swimming. Her dream came true when she launched Emler Swim School in 1975 in Arlington, Texas.  

Early on, the culture of Emler swim lessons was supported by two founding principles: Number one was that every child should experience a fun lesson that helps them to fall in love with the water. Number two was that every parent should receive a guaranteed her child will learn to swim.  

In the forty years since Emler Swim School was established, it has become the premier swim school in the country, receiving a long list of awards. Today, Emler teaches more than 45,000 students every year the life-saving skills they need to be safer in the water. 

When you observe the Emler staff during lessons, you will find friendly faces, great communication, and a team completely committed to your child’s success and safety in the water. They call each child by name, and really get to know them and their abilities throughout the semester.  

I’m told that Jan Emler always said, “Your Emler location may not always be the closest swim school...but it is always the surest way to make your child safe. Emler Sure!” 

That’s the Emler Swim School story, and we’re so happy we get to be part of it each week. 


Here is a list of some great books about swimming for those first time swimmers, or for kiddos who are a bit nervous about starting swim lessons. 

Saturday is Swimming Day

Be Brave, Little Penguin (our FAVORITE)

Maisy Learns to Swim

Leo Can Swim (another great one!

Spot Goes to the Swimming Pool

Lottie and Walter (A-DORABLE!)

Jabari Jumps (great for kids who are a little older)

Froggy Learns to Swim

Peppa Pig Goes Swimming

Llama Llama Learns to Swim

No Swimming for Nelly



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