A Dip in Courage – A Day by the Lake with Small Steps and Big Wins

By Carina Ikonen Nilsson – July 10, 2025, in Malix,
Swimming & Children
Read this post in Swedish

Introduction

There’s something special about water. It brings out courage and play, fear and laughter. Today was a day of swimming – for me, but especially for a little brave boy. Come along to the lake and follow a journey that started with a race and ended in pride.

The Race That Led to the Water

I think I went swimming three times in the lake before the little one and I went home. He lay there on the beach, fully dressed, even though he had brought swim trunks. He didn’t go in.

But another little boy did – he jumped right into the game. He thought we were racing, and of course, he wanted to win. First, we ran down to the water. Then he thought the race was to be the first one *in* the lake – which was perfect, because that got him into the water without fear.

Splashing, Laughter, and Sneaky Bravery

Once in, we started splashing. We tested who would splash the farthest. Naturally, he won. What he didn’t notice was that he was actually getting wet – a first step toward overcoming his fear.

After a little while, he said he was cold. I told him how brave I thought he was, and pointed out that he had water on his body without even realizing it.

A Second Round – and a Leap into Safety

After some snacks, we went back to the water. This time, he was even braver. He stood on the dock and splashed water at me while I swam. And with a little gentle encouragement, he jumped in – right into my arms.

We swam to the ladder, and after a few more moments, he dared to swim a little further. He got so much praise when we finished. A bit of bribery was involved – his mom had promised him a big gift if he dared to swim in the deep water. And he did.

Next Swim – in Mellerud

We’ve now decided to swim again on Saturday, up in Mellerud where we’ll be camping. They’ll come visit, and we’ll swim in the pool.

Being afraid of deep water, or getting water in your face or ears, is nothing unusual. You have to take it slow. And that’s when games – like splash battles – can help courage grow through play.

A Little Hero from a Pedagogical Channel

Feel free to check out my neighbor’s YouTube channel here:

The short videos she makes are so lovely – educational, charming, and perfect for small children. And today, it was her son who showed the most courage.

If I could show you his smile, you’d understand. His eyes sparkled when he told me about his bravery. His pride might have been even bigger than the swim itself.

Reflection

It takes courage to jump into water that feels scary. But sometimes all it takes is a laugh, a game – or safe arms. To witness that courage grow in a small body – that’s huge.

Next Time – A King, a Concert, a Feeling

Before I end, I just want to say: isn’t it wonderful to see all the beauty floating around on social media today? My next post will be about the big concert in Birmingham. About the Prince of Darkness – Ozzy Osbourne – and how amazing it is that he’s receiving all this love now, while he’s still alive.

It touches something deep within me. More on that – next time.

Want to share your thoughts?

Have you or someone you know taken a brave little step – maybe in the water, maybe somewhere else?
I’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment – I read every one.

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Thank you for reading!

#bravekids #learningtoswim #swimmingwithkids #childdevelopment #ozzyosbourne
#modigabarn #badglädje #barnsomlärsigsimma #pedagogisklek #mellerud