I will swim next time by Emily Joof illustrated by Matilda Ruta

"But when we went to the beach my tummy felt tight. I really wanted to try, but it still felt wrong inside. Definitely, possibly, perhaps I'd swim - next time."

So many of us here in Australia live near the coast. Other kids, who live further inland, are sure to have a beach holiday some time in their childhood, and rural kids often have access to rivers and lakes and of course their local town pool. This book is a beautiful and quiet exploration of the courage it takes to step into the water and swim for the first time. 

Here is a video of the author talking about her book. Emily Joof is from Gambia but she lived for a time in Sweden. Watch the trailer. This book is also an Empathy Lab title for 2024. 

I will swim next time was first published in Swedish with the title Det djupa blå.

The story offers a model for parents looking to quell children’s fears, support their dreams, and allow them room to grow. Given that many swimming pools have historically excluded African American communities and that Black children face an elevated risk of drowning, a narrative that spotlights a Black family reveling in the water is especially welcome. ... Gentle, inspiring, and important  Kirkus

This adorable, sweet book is all about reassuring little ones that they can take their time with things they feel nervous about, and that there’s no rush to get to grips with new experiences like swimming. Everyone will come to it in their own time, and Mum is happy to be patient and supportive. Book Trust

Here is a new Australian picture book which is the perfect companion read (I expect to see this one listed as a 2025 CBCA Early Childhood notable title). Read more here from Pip Harry. 

I'm jumping waves at the beach with Dad.

If they're small I can leap over their frothy peaks.

Easy!

But further out, when they're big, you have to duck dive under.

Maisie is learning about ocean swimming at the beach. The small waves are easy, but how will she know when to dive under the bigger ones? And will she be brave enough to try? Lucky Dad is there to help her.

Here are some very useful teacher resources for Over and Under by Dr Robyn Sheahan-Bright. There is a very comprehensive book list at the end of these notes with so many more books to explore on the topics of the beach and learning to swim including a favourite of mine Bear and Chook by the sea.

Bear and Chook by the Sea