Supporting Children with Dyspraxia at Daddy Shark Swim School

At Daddy Shark Swim School, we believe that every child deserves the chance to enjoy the water, build confidence, and develop vital swimming skills. For some children, challenges such as dyspraxia can make learning to swim more complex, but with the right support, they can thrive.

Understanding Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder - DCD)

Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), means that a child’s brain processes movement and coordination differently. The Dyspraxia Foundation explains it beautifully as a brain that is ‘wired up’ in a unique way—very clever, but sometimes a little mixed up when it comes to motor skills, learning, and even speech.

It’s important for children and parents to know that dyspraxia is not their fault. Children with dyspraxia work incredibly hard every day to master tasks that others find simple. They are not lazy, slow, or difficult; rather, their brain and body communicate in a different way, which can make activities like swimming, cycling, or writing more challenging.

However, dyspraxia also brings many strengths, such as creativity, kindness, and perseverance.

Dyspraxia doesn’t go away, but with the right support and patience, children can learn to live with it well and overcome many of its challenges—including learning to swim!

How Dyspraxia Affects Swimmers

Because dyspraxia affects coordination, balance, and planning movements, some children may struggle with:

Moving smoothly through the water or coordinating their arms and legs.
Adjusting to new activities, such as floating or treading water.
Fine motor tasks, like adjusting goggles or holding onto the poolside.
Confidence in the water, particularly with activities like jumping in.
Following multi-step instructions or remembering sequences.

These challenges don’t mean a child can’t learn to swim—it simply means they may need more time, extra guidance, and a teaching approach that works for them.

How We Support Swimmers with Dyspraxia/DCD

At Daddy Shark Swim School, we understand that every child learns differently. For children with dyspraxia/DCD, we use learn to swim strategies designed to break down barriers and build confidence:

Breaking tasks into small, achievable steps so that progress feels manageable.
Repetition and structured learning to reinforce movements over time.
Using fun, engaging equipment like kickboards and noodles to support balance.
Encouraging patience and positive reinforcement, so children feel celebrated for every step forward.
Supporting children emotionally, acknowledging their frustrations but also helping them see their strengths.
Robust instructor training through Autism Swim, ensuring that our team is well-equipped to support children with dyspraxia as part of a broader approach to inclusive swimming instruction.

We also recognise that balance can be a big challenge, which is why we take extra care with activities like jumping in or floating, ensuring children feel secure and supported.

A Parent’s Experience

We love seeing the progress our swimmers make, and we are proud to support children with dyspraxia in their swimming journey. One of our parents shared their experience with us:

“My little boy has been going to Daddy Shark Swim School for a couple of years. He has ADHD and dyspraxia so he has one-to-one lessons with Daddy Shark himself! He struggles with concentration and coordination. Neil is amazing with him and makes the lessons fun, and also very patient!”

Stories like this highlight how, with the right support, patience, and encouragement, children with dyspraxia can thrive in swimming lessons.

The Power of Play and Movement

Playful activities can make all the difference for children with dyspraxia. Simple yet effective exercises like throwing and catching a ball help with hand-eye coordination, while riding a pool noodle (‘seahorse races’) strengthens balance and movement control. Survival strokes, like the jellyfish float, allow children to practise essential swimming skills in a way that feels natural and fun.

Every Child Can Learn to Swim

We want parents to know that dyspraxia is not a barrier to swimming—it is simply a different learning journey. With patience, support, and understanding, children with dyspraxia can gain confidence, develop essential water skills, and most importantly, enjoy being in the pool.

At Daddy Shark Swim School, we are proud to create an environment where every swimmer is valued and celebrated. If you have any questions about how we support children with additional needs, please get in touch. Together, we can make swimming a joyful and rewarding experience for your child!