How should an instructor respond to a student who shows panic in water?

The most effective way for an instructor to respond to a student who shows panic in the water is to remain calm and provide reassurance. This response is crucial as it helps to alleviate the student’s anxiety, enabling them to regain control of their emotions and focus on their skills. When a student is panicking, they may not be able to think clearly. The calm demeanor of the instructor can help create a safe environment where the student feels supported, allowing them to breathe deeply, relax, and respond to instructions more effectively.

By providing reassurance, the instructor communicates that the situation is under control, which can be comforting for a panicked swimmer. Additionally, maintaining a calm presence helps to model appropriate behavior in stressful situations, demonstrating resilience that students can learn from.

In contrast, calling for help may escalate the situation by increasing the student’s anxiety and fear, while remaining silent does not address the problem. Encouraging the swimmer to swim harder can lead to exhaustion or further panic, making it less likely for them to regain composure. Thus, remaining calm and offering reassurance stands out as the most supportive and effective approach in this scenario.