It is important for Parents to understand the benefits and what to expect when their most precious goods are starting a Swimming and Water Safety Program. In this articlae we explore what you should expect at a minimum.
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Key Features of Infant and Toddlers Programs
At this stage of the learn to swim journey the Swim School programs should focus on water familiarisation, enjoyment and development of elementary skills required prior to independent participation
Ages are from 6 months to 3 years
In-water parent or carer participation
Learn through play, games and fundamental movement skills
What can I expect my child to learn?
Getting into and out of the water safely
Floating on their front and back
Orientating their body using rotation skills
Moving through the water using kicking and arm actions
Gliding in a forward direction
Breathing preparation skills
Submerging under water
Safety rules for participating in lessons
Social skills for interacting with peers and the teacher
What Qualifications should my teacher have?
All Swim Teachers who are teaching infants and toddlers should hold a unit of competency which is nationally recognised from the Sport, Fitness and Recreation Training package. Upon successful completion of all assessment requirements, candidates will be issued a Statement of Attainment for the following unit:
SISCAQU011 Promote development of infants and toddlers in an aquatic environment
Parent and Carer Involvement
Parents and carers are an integral part of children’s aquatic education and, at these early ages, in-water parent and carer participation is necessary not only for safety but to provide support and guidance through activities to get maximum value from lessons.
Parent and carer involvement is a massive factor for children’s enjoyment and engagement in the learning process as well as their skill progression and achievement. The best way to do this is to be actively involved and get wet!
You as a Parent should also be receiving a range of safety information to help understand and educate your child. This includes such things as:
Statistics and Facts of Child Drowning
Child Drowning Strategies
Parent / Carer Supervision and Common Distrations
The important of restricting access in and around the home
Bath Safety
How to Perform CPR