[header] How to teach the sidestroke [title] Have your students lie on the floor on their left side. [step] Each student will eventually develop a side that they prefer-usually their dominant side-but when you're teaching them the basics, have them start on the left. That way everyone is on the same page. 
[title] Ask the students to extend their left arm above their head. [step] They should rest their head on their upper arm.