Frankie’s Experience at BlueFit Swimming’s DragonFly Program with Swim Instructor Francisco:
At BlueFit, we believe every child deserves to feel safe and confident in the water. Our Dragonfly Program offers specialised, 1:1 swimming lessons tailored for children with additional needs focusing on trust, patience, and individual abilities.
Recently, one of our wonderful BlueFit Swimming Mums at Sunshine Coast Active shared her son Frankie’s incredible journey, highlighting the life-changing impact of the right environment and instructor at BlueFit Swimming.
Overcoming the Sensory Barrier
Frankie, who is hard of hearing, faces extra challenges in a standard pool environment. Without his hearing aids, he relies entirely on visual cues, key word signs, and feeling safe with his instructor. In a busy group lesson, the sensory overload became too much, and Frankie completely withdrew.
"I remember feeling that pit in my stomach of worry and grief, wondering if this would be another experience that just might not work for him," his mum recalls.
Fortunately, a dedicated BlueFit instructor named Francisco (fondly known as ‘Cisco’) noticed Frankie struggling. He invited the family to stay after class for a quiet, one-on-one introduction to build trust.
The Dragonfly Difference: Trust & Connection
Switching to a 1:1 Dragonfly lesson was an absolute game-changer. The quieter, slower pace allowed Frankie to learn safely, while Francisco adapted his teaching style by using key word signs, speaking clearly beside him, and keeping lessons fun.
The transformation over the last three months has been like day and night.
"I never imagined I would see him excitedly jumping straight into a swimming pool," his mum says. "One moment that will stay with me forever was seeing Frankie swimming independently with a pool noodle for the first time. I couldn’t hold back my tears, and Francisco looked at me and said, ‘Stop it, now I’m going to cry.’"
Confidence Beyond the Pool
Frankie’s newfound bravery has carried over into his everyday life. After lessons, he proudly declares, "I did it!" and "I do it!" showing a beautiful, growing belief in himself. Francisco has become a household name, spoken of around the dinner table like a true friend.
To other families navigating hearing loss or additional needs, Frankie’s mum offers a message of hope:
"Please don’t give up. We tried multiple things before this that didn’t work. But finding the right people can change everything. Keep going until you find your ‘Cisco.’"
Learn More About Our BlueFit Swimming Dragonfly Program
If your child requires extra support, BlueFit’s Dragonfly Program provides customised 1:1 lessons tailored to individual physical, cognitive, or sensory needs.
Click here to learn more or inquire about availability in the BlueFit DragonFly Program
