Sharks

On the last day of our vacation, we were swimming with Aliya. And I saw a pack of small fish. So I decided that it will be fun to show it to her. I pointed it out and for 2-3 minutes she didn't see anything but then she noticed it. Instead of interest she was completely devastated crying and we left the water. When she calmed down she told me: 

- mommy this fish will eat me. 

- how it will eat you Aliya? You are so big and the fish is as big as your finger. Don't worry.

- but no mommy, these are sharks and they will eat me. 

- Aliya you are right that sharks live in the water too but they don't live in this sea. Mommy would never go in the water unless it is safe for us. And sharks are also very big... 

Later I told her too:

- Aliya you know that fish lives in the sea, right. We just go to visit them for a little. And then they will make us space to swim...

She started thinking... I continued

- Daddy told you that the big fish lives at the house with the flag. And the little fish they go to kindergarten and to play where the ball is. Do you see the two of them? So let's sleep now and you can think about that tomorrow. 

Next we managed to get her inside the water without being afraid. I am so happy! I don't want her to grow with any fear:)

Birthday gift

For her 3rd birthday Aliya made to herself the best gift ever - she overcome her fear from water and the sea and started swimming. Until now for the last 2 years she is always scared from the water and even screaming when I enter let alone she goes inside the sea. 

On the first day we arrived, 30th July, I put her on her new swimming gear and we ran to the beach. She didn't hesitate at all as she was going in the warm water. Then I told her to let go from the bottom. If she wants to walk she can do that out of the water, but the sea is meant for swimming. And so she did. 

- Mommy, I am flying! 

- no dear , you are floating! 

- Yeah, I am swimming! I am swimming like the fish! I am swimming like the fish! 

She was so happy and shining!

 I will not forget her happy face in the water! This is a memory I hope I can always keep :)