Luca Learns to Swim is the only illustrated children's book which helps first time swimmers, ages 2 to 7, prepare for swim lessons. This beautiful and heartwarming tale was written by Barry Shrewsbury, a professional swim instructor with over 18 years experience (specializing in teaching children with a fear of water).

Your child will preview, through Luca's experiences, the natural progression from non-swimmer to swimmer and be able to visualize him or herself going through this process as well.  This engaging story invites an active discussion between you and your child regarding their concerns and questions about learning to swim.

Luca’s journey takes him from anxious beginner to happy, enthusiastic, and "pool safe" swimmer. Reading Luca aloud will not only prepare your child for this wonderful journey by demystifying the process, it will help increase the probability of his or her success. 

Happy Safe Swimming!!  

LUCA LEARNS TO SWIM SYNOPSIS

“Luca Learns To Swim” is the story of a young boy who “loves” playing in water but who hasn’t yet learned to swim. He enjoys splashing and paddling about in pools but while watching his older brothers playing around in the deep end he dreams of joining them one day. When his parents sign him up for lessons, he is excited, yet also a bit anxious.

When he meets Angela - his warm, insightful and caring instructor he relaxes and accepts her teaching confidently. Over a series of lessons, he faces increasingly difficult skills, all of which he handles capably. He realizes his final, ultimate goal on the very last lesson - after which he proudly reviews his accomplishments, then basks warmly in his family’s pride and congratulations.

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Following the story, the author adds a list of several sound, practical suggestions for parents’ activities before and during the lesson process. Following these tips can help parents to make the whole experience proceed smoothly and positively for all.

Barry Shrewsbury, the author, is a successful swim instructor and has taught hundreds of children to swim. Kat Drayton is a teacher’s aid to special needs kids and an artist.  Her superb illustrations bring Luca vividly to life.

        Barry has taught countless youngsters of all ages how to swim and enjoy the water, and especially, how to be pool safe. This story arises out of these experiences, the first in a planned series of children’s books. Barry has long felt the need for a book which would support parents in their vital job preparing their children for swim lessons. 

          Barry holds a Master's Degree in Athletic Counseling and served as a middle school teacher in Los Angeles; a camp counselor and waterfront director; and a youth coach for swimming, water polo and baseball, in addition to his work as a swimming instructor. He resides with his family in North Fork, California.

Kat Drayton

        Born into an artistic family from New England, Kat now lives and works in Sedona, Arizona. Having worked with children for the past ten years, she currently helps kids with special needs in her local school system.

        Kat enjoys art projects that involve children. This is the second children's book she has illustrated.