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.

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