Splish splash - Bath swimming
Swimming practice makes perfect fun bath-time exercises. While some children love splashing in the tub, swimming in a pool is a different story. Ease your child’s anxiety and fear of the water with three fun bath-time swimming lessons. Caution: As always, never leave your child unattended during bath time.
Blowing Bubbles
Get your child comfortable with putting her head underwater, by trying this in-the-tub technique before a plunge in the big pool. (Refrain from using bubble bath for this activity.)
Start by taking a big breath in (exaggerate the sound).
Make an O-shape with your mouth and make an “ooo” sound as you blow out.
Encourage your child to imitate you a few times.
When she is ready, have her practice with her mouth in the water and her nose above it. She might want to try using goggles too!
Fantastic Floating
Here’s a relaxing way to introduce your child to the back stroke.
Help her lay back with her body straight.
Support her body as she floats, using your entire hand at first, and then decreasing the amount of support over time.
Encourage her to gently flutter her feet, but not enough that she’ll get water all over the bathroom.
Forward Crawl
While your child is in a seated position, familiarise her with the crawl stroke by helping to bicycle her arms.
- Dip her hands in the water as you paddle her arms.
