Why Level 3 and Level 5 Take Time: A Closer Look at the “Stuck Levels”

At Canning Swim School, one of the most common questions we get from parents is: “Why is my child still in Level 3 or Level 5?”

If your child seems to be progressing well and loves the water, it can be puzzling to see them stay in the same level for months on end. The answer? These levels are tough—and they’re designed that way.

Here’s why Levels 3 and 5 often take a little longer and why that’s completely okay.

Level 3: The Freestyle Breathing Challenge

Moving from Level 2 to Level 3 is a major step in the swim journey. It’s where children begin learning one of the trickiest parts of freestyle: breathing while swimming.

In Level 2, kids focus on swimming 5 metres with big arms and bubble blowing. But in Level 3, that skill is taken up a notch. To pass this level, swimmers must demonstrate:

• A strong, consistent kick
• Both arms clearing the water
• Rhythmic breathing in and out
• Proper head and body alignment

That’s a lot to coordinate—especially for young swimmers who are still developing motor skills. Think of it like learning to pat your head and rub your stomach while walking backwards—it takes time, repetition, and focus.

Survival Backstroke Kick

Another new skill introduced in Level 3 is the survival backstroke kick, which requires:

• Gliding with legs together for 3 seconds
• Turning toes outwards
• Making a circular motion with the legs while keeping knees aligned with the shoulders

It’s technical and often underestimated, but it’s essential for water safety.

👉 Most kids spend 18 months to 2 years in Level 3. And that’s completely normal!

Level 5: Mastering the Breaststroke

Level 5 is another “sticky” stage—this time due to the complexity of breaststroke.

In Level 4, swimmers begin learning breaststroke kick (usually with a board over 5 metres). But in Level 5, the full stroke is introduced. That means students need to coordinate:

• A 3-second glide with arms extended
• Arm pull that finishes near the shoulders
• Timed breathing
• A correct kick with feet turned out and knees under control

All of these elements have to happen in the right order and rhythm. That’s no small feat! And often, when swimmers focus on one part—like head position—something else may slip, like arm timing or kick technique. This trial-and-error is part of the learning curve.

So… Is My Child Falling Behind?

Absolutely not. Progress in swimming isn’t always linear. These levels involve:

• Full-body coordination
• Muscle memory
• Focus and endurance
• Repetition, repetition, repetition

While it might look like your child is “stuck,” what’s actually happening is deep skill development—setting a strong foundation for future success in the pool.

So please don’t worry if your child spends longer in Level 3 or Level 5. With time, patience, and encouragement, they’ll get there.

Progress is progress—no matter how slow it feels. Keep cheering them on, and we’ll keep guiding them every stroke of the way.