Alisha Mulligan WSI & BSI Swim Instructor

Let’s talk about it… A common belief is that letting children wear goggles too early creates “dependency.” But as far as current research shows, there’s no proof that using goggles in the early stages of learning reduces long term water competency. What people often describe as “goggle dependency” is usually something else. Sometimes a child who usually wears goggles may hesitate when they’re asked to swim without them. That doesn’t mean they’ve lost their skills. They’re simply adjusting to a different sensory experience, just like anyone would when conditions change. Confidence can also be mistaken for ability. A child may seem less capable without goggles, when in reality they’re just dealing with unfamiliar sensations or reduced visibility.

For me, goggles are a teaching tool not something that’s inherently good or bad.My teaching is child centered and built around trust. Every child learns differently, so I don’t believe in applying the same rule to everyone. If goggles help a nervous or hesitant swimmer feel safe enough to engage, then they can be incredibly valuable in those early stages.As confidence grows, I gradually introduce short periods without goggles so children become comfortable in both situations. The goal isn’t to rely on one or avoid the other it’s to help children adapt to different environments with confidence.I absolutely believe children should learn to open their eyes underwater and develop strong orientation skills. I just don’t believe goggles prevent that from happening.

For me, the focus is always on building confident, capable swimmers not following myths or one-size-fits-all rules.

Every year, we hear tragic stories of someone drowning while trying to save another person in trouble in the water.

When someone is actively drowning, they may grab onto a rescuer in a desperate attempt to stay above water, putting both lives at risk.

That’s why we teach: Throw, Don’t Go.

If someone needs help:
• Yell for help
• Throw something that floats to them
• Get an adult or call 911

Even strong swimmers should never jump in to rescue someone unless they have proper lifesaving training.

Teach your children: Throw, Don’t Go. It could save two lives.

Looking for a pool that I could use to teach lessons at! In exchange for pool access, I’d be happy to provide lessons for your child or family member!

In my feels

Hey! I’m Alisha Mulligan a grad student at The University of Alabama! I am finishing up my masters in education/sport pedagogy. I also teach various different age groups how to swim & water safety skills!

I teach adult & children lessons! I am BSI & WSI certified as well as CPR!

I prioritize in swimming skills as well as life saving safety skills. Sessions are $60 for one hour or $40 for 30 minutes!

I also have 10 pack lessons that are a pay in full option 10 one hour lesssons for $550!

*prices may go up depending on availability, but early & prior students will be grandfathered in to these rates!*

Swimming is my favorite thing to teach because it make the biggest impact!

I have an opening at 2:45 today, in Tuscaloosa, Al!

⚡ POOL SAFETY ALERT ⚡

When Thunder Roars, Stay Out of the Water!
• 🚫 Exit the pool immediately if you hear thunder
• ⚡ Lightning can strike from up to 10 miles away — even with no rain
• 🪜 Avoid ladders, rails, and wet decks during storms
• ⏳ Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before re-entering

Your safety is priority #1. Let the storm pass — then splash!
— Alisha, Swim Instructor (BSI & WSI Certified)