Toddler Swimming

1 to 3 years

The principle of “water parenting” continues into the more active toddler years. Communication, interaction and fun are the stepping stone to water confidence and learning to swim. Every child learns in their own unique style as long as they feel safe and can move forward at their own pace. Covering a certain distance is not our primary aim, we watch for exploration of buoyancy in water, delight in the underwater world and the gentle movement to independence. Then we can begin to introduce more formal stroke techniques whilst still emphasising both fun and relaxation.

With the right support every child has the desire to move and enjoy new experiences. What joy it is to turn to Mum or Dad for encouragement and hugs and to celebrate swimming together.

Whether your toddler has been swimming since they were a baby or are new to the classes we will work with you individually, recognising different temperaments and preferences. As toddlers gain strength and flexibility a whole new world opens up to be enjoyed together with you and with their new friends.

Toddler swimming offers a different way to use new developing skills in water as well as on land. We help to build strength and improve co-ordination whilst encouraging independence, what we call 'widening the gap', either between parent and toddler or your child moving from the mat to poolside. We always encourage interaction and exploration in a very safe environment. Toddlers learn the pool rules and respect for water that will last for a lifetime.

Toddler swim moves seamlessly into young child swimming, preparing young children for independent swimming.

• Communication – Development of the relationship between parent/carer and child
• Physical benefits – strengthening muscles, supporting balance and alignment of the body and developing co ordination
• Psychological benefits – Growth in confidence, interaction and the development of trust
• Cognitive benefits – Development of language, brain maturation and social skills
• Specific swimming skills – the development of stroke moves and breathing techniques
• Multi- sensory experience – Particularly lovely to have close touch still with their parent and to feel the qualities of water
• Fun transition to swimming – No pressure or anxiety to the children, ensuring a love of water into the future