The Pool Primer (course) for parents and toddlers is a fun, engaging and informative way to jump-start a swimming future. Take time to focus on safety while building excitement for swimming.
I. Introduction: Welcome to the Pool!
- Key Message: The pool is a fun place to play and learn, but it's important to follow some rules to stay safe.
II. Pool Rules and Safety
- Walking, Not Running: It's important to walk around the pool area to avoid slips and falls.
- Activity: Practice walking slowly and carefully together.
- No Pushing or Shoving: Teach gentle interactions around the pool.
- Role-play: Act out gentle ways to ask someone to move or share a space.
- Staying with a Grown-Up: Emphasize the importance of always being with a parent or guardian near the water.
- Visual Aid: Show pictures of children holding hands with their adults by the pool.
- No Drinking the Pool Water: Explain why pool water isn't for drinking.
- Simple Explanation: "Pool water has special cleaners in it to keep it clean, but it doesn't taste good and can make your tummy hurt."
III. Getting Ready for the Pool
- Swimsuits and Gear: Appropriate swimwear is functional and sporty. Swim diapers (if needed) might be seen. Towels are everywhere.
- For outdoors, we need to use sunscreen: Explain why it's important to wear sunscreen to protect the skin from the sun.
- Show how to apply sunscreen.
- Babies, not so much.
- Not for the eyes.
- Taking a Shower: Explain the importance of showering before entering the pool.
IV. What to Expect During Swim Lessons
- Meeting the Instructor: Explain that a friendly teacher will help them learn to swim.
- Getting in the Water: Describe how they'll enter the pool (steps, ladder, or being held by the instructor).
- Water Activities: Briefly introduce some basic water activities they might do, like:
- Splashing: Show how to gently splash with hands.
- Blowing Bubbles: Practice blowing bubbles in the air and then in a bowl of water.
- Kicking: Demonstrate kicking with legs.
- Floating: Explain how the water can help them float.
- Submerging: Explain that they might put their face in the water briefly.
- Practice: Practice holding breath and putting faces in a bowl of water at home.
V. Fun at the Pool!
- Positive Reinforcement: Emphasize how much fun they'll have learning to swim and playing in the water.
- Visuals: Show more pictures or videos of kids enjoying pool activities.
Tips for Making the Course Engaging:
- Keep it Short and Simple: Toddlers have short attention spans, so keep each section brief and to the point.
- Use Visuals: Pictures, videos, and demonstrations will help toddlers understand the concepts.
- Make it Interactive: Include activities, role-play, and practice sessions to keep them engaged.
- Use Positive Language: Focus on what they can do and how much fun they'll have.
- Repetition: Repeat key messages throughout the course.
By covering these topics in a fun and engaging way, the Pool Primer course can help toddlers feel prepared and excited for their pool experience and upcoming swim lessons.
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