Survival swim - home practice - toddlers and preschoolers

Home Practice – Children 2+: Teaching Swimming Skills on Land & in the Bath

This course is designed to help parents and caregivers introduce essential swimming skills to children aged 2+ in a fun and stress-free way—right from the comfort of home! Through playful exercises on land and in the bath, children will naturally develop breath control, back floating, front floating, and rolling over, building the foundation for safe and confident swimming.

Using engaging games and simple routines, this course ensures that learning is enjoyable, helping children become comfortable in water long before they enter a pool. By practicing at home, your child will gain confidence, improve coordination, and develop vital water safety skills at their own pace.

Key Learning Areas:
✅ Breath-hold exercises through fun games
✅ Back floating and relaxation techniques
✅ Front floating and proper body positioning
✅ Rolling over from front to back for safety
✅ Building water confidence in a familiar environment

This home-based approach makes learning to swim feel natural and enjoyable. By the time your child enters the pool, they’ll already have the confidence and foundational skills needed to succeed!

Let’s turn bath time and playtime into the first step toward a lifetime of safe and happy swimming! ?‍♂️?

Breath Hold 1 – Fun Feather Blow

Sit side by side with your child and place a lightweight object, such as a feather, on your palms. (Feathers can be found in most arts and crafts stores.)

1️⃣ Take a deep breath in together.
2️⃣ As you exhale, blow the feather away with a long, steady breath.
3️⃣ Give your child a high five and praise them enthusiastically!

Repeat this exercise three times, keeping it fun and encouraging. This simple game helps children practice controlled exhalation, an essential skill for swimming and breath-holding in the water. ???

Breath Hold 2 – Hold and Blow

Sit side by side with your child and place a lightweight object, such as a feather, on your palm.

1️⃣ Take a deep breath in together.
2️⃣ Hold your breath for 5 seconds.
3️⃣ Exhale and blow the feather away.
4️⃣ Give your child a high five and praise them!

Repeat this exercise three times, making it fun and engaging. This activity helps children develop breath control, an essential skill for swimming. ?️??

Back Floating – Land Practice 1

In this exercise, your child will learn the correct back floating position by keeping their chin high up to the sky and looking behind at you. This helps them maintain proper alignment and relax for 5 seconds.

Although this may seem simple, teaching a child to stay still and relax for a few seconds can be challenging.

? Step 1: Lie down on your back while your child sits in front of you, facing you.
? Step 2: Demonstrate the position and count up to 5 while staying relaxed.
? Step 3: Switch roles and let your child copy you, encouraging them to relax.
? Step 4: Praise your child with excitement—a high five or a cheer! ??

This activity builds confidence in back floating by reinforcing the correct posture in a safe and familiar environment.

Back Floating – Land Practice 2

In this exercise, your child will practice lying on their back in a comfortable and relaxed position for 5 seconds.

? Step 1: Have your child lie down on their back, ensuring they are calm and comfortable.
? Step 2: Encourage them to relax their body while keeping their chin up.
? Step 3: Guide them to stretch out their arms and legs into a starfish position while staying relaxed.
? Step 4: Count up to 5 and then celebrate their effort with praise or a high five! ?

This activity helps children become familiar with the back floating position, promoting confidence and relaxation before practicing in the water.

Front Floating – Land Practice 1

This exercise helps your child become familiar with the proper front floating position while staying relaxed for 5 seconds on land.

? Step 1: Lie down on your belly in front of your child.
? Step 2: Stretch your arms forward toward your child, keeping your face down, looking at the floor.
? Step 3: Hold this position for 5 seconds while staying relaxed.
? Step 4: Switch roles and let your child try the same position.
? Step 5: Praise them and give a big high five! ?

This simple but effective exercise helps your child build confidence and understand body positioning before practicing in the water.

Front Floating – Land Practice 2

Now that your child is comfortable holding the front floating position for 5 seconds, it's time to introduce kicking! This exercise helps them get used to the movement before practicing in the water.

? Step 1: Lie down on your belly in front of your child.
? Step 2: Stretch your arms forward and keep your face down, looking at the floor.
? Step 3: Begin kicking your legs gently, keeping them straight and relaxed. Count to 5 while kicking.
? Step 4: Switch roles and let your child try the same. Encourage small, gentle kicks.
? Step 5: Praise them and give a big high five! ?

This practice helps develop coordination and prepares your child for efficient kicking in the water.

Back to Belly – Rolling Over

This is the first exercise where your child will practice rolling over. Many children find it easier to roll from their back onto their belly, especially when practicing in the water.

This movement is important for building body awareness, coordination, and confidence in the water. Keep it fun and relaxed!

Belly to Back – Rolling Over

This is one of the most challenging exercises in the water, so practicing it often is key!

When teaching your child to roll from their belly to their back, make sure they keep their chin high up. This will help them maintain the correct body position and make it much easier when they transition to water.

Keeping the movement slow and controlled will build confidence and body awareness. Always encourage and praise your child’s efforts! ?

Belly to Back – Rolling Over (Step-by-Step Practice)

This exercise helps your child develop the skill to roll from their belly to their back, an essential movement in swimming. It’s a bit more challenging, but with practice, your child will gain confidence and strength in the water.

Step 1: Get Into Position

• Have your child lie on their belly on a comfortable surface like the floor or a soft mat.

• You can demonstrate the position first to help them understand what to do.

• Ensure their arms are stretched out in front and their face is looking down.

Step 2: Lift and Roll

• Gently guide your child’s arm to the side, and with a little assistance, help them roll their body over onto their back.

• While doing this, make sure they keep their chin high up. This helps them maintain the right body position and avoids sinking.

Step 3: Praise the Effort

• If your child successfully rolls from their belly to their back, give lots of praise! "Great job! You’re doing awesome!"

• If they need assistance, that’s okay too. Gently help them complete the movement and encourage them to try again.

Step 4: Practice

• Repeat the exercise several times, focusing on keeping the chin up and the movement smooth.

• Keep the practice fun and light-hearted! You can turn it into a game, using language like “Let’s roll like a log!”

Step 5: Praise and Encouragement

• After every attempt, celebrate the progress they’ve made, no matter how small. A high five or a hug will make them feel accomplished.

This practice will help your child learn to roll smoothly and safely in the water. As they get more confident, the movements will become second nature. Keep practicing in short sessions to build their skills and coordination!

Home Practice - Bath - Warm Up 1

This fun and engaging warm-up exercise helps your child get comfortable with water while practicing basic washing motions. It is a great way to build familiarity with water on different body parts and prepare for future swimming activities.

Steps:

1. Get a Cup
   Give your child a cup that they can use to scoop water.

2. Wash One Leg
   Start by having them wash one leg. Use the cup to pour water onto the leg, encouraging them to move the water around gently.

3. Wash the Other Leg
   Repeat with the other leg. Make sure they are feeling comfortable with each movement.

4. Wash the Belly
   Next, help your child pour water onto their belly. They can gently rub it with their hands, enjoying the sensation.

5. Wash One Arm
   Now, they’ll wash one arm. Encourage them to use the cup to pour water and move it around the arm.

6. Wash the Other Arm
   Repeat for the other arm, making sure they are enjoying the rhythm of the movements.

7. Wash the Back
   Show your child how to scoop water and wash their back. They may need a little help reaching all the way to their back, but let them try.

8. Wash the Face
   Finally, help them scoop some water into their palms and gently wash their face. This helps them get used to having water near their face without fear.

Repeat

Repeat the entire process 3 more times, encouraging your child each time and praising their efforts.

This simple exercise is perfect for making bath time fun while building confidence in the water! You’re helping them get used to the feeling of water on their body, which will be useful for future swimming lessons.

Home Practice - Bath - Warm Up 2

This warm-up exercise helps your child build confidence in having water around their face and prepares them for breath-holding and face submersion. It's important to create a positive experience with water, allowing your child to feel comfortable with each step.

Steps:

1. Get a Cup
   Give your child a cup to scoop water.

2. Wash One Leg
   Start by having them wash one leg using the cup. Encourage them to move the water gently around.

3. Wash the Other Leg
   Repeat for the other leg, helping them get comfortable with the motions.

4. Wash the Belly
   Pour water on the belly, and let your child rub it in. Enjoy the movement and make it fun.

5. Wash One Arm
   Wash one arm, helping them scoop water onto it and move it around.

6. Wash the Other Arm
   Repeat for the other arm, encouraging your child to gently rub it in.

7. Wash the Back
   Show your child how to wash their back with the cup of water. Let them try to reach all parts of their back.

8. Wash the Chin
   Pour some water onto the chin, encouraging them to relax and feel the water as it moves across their skin.

9. Wash One Cheek
   Scoop some water onto one cheek, letting them feel the sensation of the water on their face.

10. Wash the Other Cheek
    Repeat for the other cheek, making sure they are relaxed and comfortable with the water on their face.

11. Wash the Forehead
    Pour water onto the forehead, letting your child feel the water gently on that area.

12. Wash the Whole Face
    Finally, help your child wash their entire face with water. Start gently, and if needed, encourage them to close their eyes for a few seconds.

Repeat

Repeat the entire process 3 more times, helping your child feel more comfortable with water on their face each time.

This exercise builds confidence and prepares them for breath-holding and face submersion when it's time to move to the next stage of swimming. Keep the experience light and fun!

Home Practice - Bath - Big Monkey 1

This exercise is a fun and interactive way to help your child build water confidence while practicing basic swimming skills. By using playful role-playing and mimicry, the child will feel more comfortable with water and develop essential skills like blowing bubbles, submerging the face, and getting used to water in their ears.

Steps:

1. Child Sits Upright in the Bath
   Have your child sit upright in the bath, making sure they are comfortable and relaxed.

2. Parent is the Big Monkey, and Child is the Little Monkey
   The parent will be the "Big Monkey," and the child will be the "Little Monkey." The child will copy whatever the parent does.

3. Splashing
   The parent starts by splashing water gently with their hands. Encourage your child to splash too, showing them how much fun it can be.

4. Chin in the Water
   The parent demonstrates putting their chin in the water for a moment, then encourages the child to do the same. This helps them get used to having their chin submerged.

5. Left Ear
   Now, the parent dips their left ear in the water and "listens to the fish." Encourage your child to do the same and listen for any "fish sounds."

6. Right Ear
   Repeat the process with the right ear, letting the child feel comfortable with water around their ears.

7. Blow Bubbles
   The parent demonstrates blowing bubbles in the water. Encourage the child to blow bubbles as well, showing them how to exhale gently into the water.

8. Wash Whole Face with Hands
   The parent washes their face with wet hands, submerging their face for a brief moment. Encourage your child to copy and wash their own face gently with their hands.

Encourage and Praise

Throughout the exercise, encourage your child to copy everything you do. Praise them for each step, even if it’s just a small attempt. Positive reinforcement builds confidence.

This fun and playful game helps your child get used to the feeling of water on their face, ears, and chin, all while building trust and confidence in the water.

Home Practice - Bath - Big Monkey 2

This exercise builds on the first "Big Monkey" game but adds an additional challenge by encouraging your child to hold their breath and submerge their whole face underwater. It’s a fun way to increase their comfort with water while reinforcing key swimming skills.

Steps:

1. Child Follows Parent’s Instructions
   The parent acts as the "Big Monkey" and the child is the "Little Monkey," following each step the parent demonstrates.

2. Start with Splashing
   Begin by gently splashing water with your hands, encouraging your child to mimic your movements. This helps them get comfortable with water on their hands and arms.

3. Chin in the Water
   The parent dips their chin into the water briefly and then encourages the child to do the same. This helps them get used to having their face in the water without fear.

4. Left Ear in the Water
   Next, the parent dips their left ear into the water and "listens to the fish." The child should copy this, getting comfortable with water in their ears.

5. Right Ear in the Water
   The parent dips their right ear into the water and again "listens to the fish." Encourage your child to follow along and enjoy the sensation.

6. Blowing Bubbles
   The parent demonstrates blowing bubbles in the water. Show your child how to gently blow air through their mouth while keeping their face in the water.

7. Wash Your Face with Your Hands
   The parent gently washes their face with wet hands, showing how to splash and clean their face. The child should copy the parent and wash their own face with their hands, ensuring their face is submerged for a short time.

8. Take a Good Breath and Submerge the Whole Face Underwater
   The parent demonstrates taking a big breath and then submerging their whole face under the water for a second. Encourage the child to take a deep breath and follow suit, submerging their face for a brief moment.

Encourage and Praise

As with all exercises, positive reinforcement is key. Praise your child for each successful step, even if it’s just a small effort. Acknowledge their courage for submerging their face and holding their breath.

This practice builds confidence and helps your child develop essential swimming skills while still having fun in the bath. By gradually increasing the challenges, you are helping them feel more comfortable with water, which will set the foundation for their swimming lessons in the pool.

Home Practice - Bath - Driving 1

This fun exercise turns bath time into an exciting driving adventure while practicing leg kicking! It’s a great way to help your child work on their kicking technique while keeping them engaged and entertained.

Steps:

1. Child Sits in the Bath
   The child sits comfortably in the bath, ready to start their "driving adventure."

2. Choose the Ring
   Let the child choose a ring or a toy to represent the steering wheel or the vehicle's dashboard. This encourages them to engage with the game.

3. Turn on the Engine
   Encourage the child to "start the engine" by making a fun sound effect (like "Vroom Vroom!"), and tell them they’re ready to drive.

4. Green Light - Kick Legs
   When you say "green light," the child starts kicking their legs, pretending to drive forward. They should kick their legs gently, mimicking the motion they will later use for swimming.

5. Red Light - Stop
   When you say "red light," the child must stop kicking and remain still in the bath.

6. Turn Right and Left
   Call out "turn right" or "turn left," and encourage the child to twist their body and move their legs to mimic steering.

7. Beep the Horn
   Encourage the child to make a "beep beep" sound as they pretend to honk the horn. This adds an element of fun while reinforcing coordination.

8. Wave at Each Other
   As part of the game, encourage the child to wave to you, just like a driver waves to another driver.

9. Repeat
   Once the driving adventure is over, repeat the game for more practice, letting the child enjoy kicking and following the driving cues.

Praise and Encourage

Give plenty of positive feedback throughout the activity, especially for good leg kicks. Praising them for following the directions—like stopping at the red light or making turns—will help them stay motivated.

This exercise helps improve leg coordination, balance, and kicking strength in a playful, engaging way. The more they practice, the better they will become at using their legs for swimming!

Home Practice - Bath - Driving 2

This game builds on the previous "Driving 1" exercise but adds more advanced movements, such as practicing front floating with kicking and blowing bubbles. It’s a fun way to combine essential swimming skills while making bath time enjoyable!

Steps:

1. Child Lies on Belly
   Have the child lie down on their belly in the bath, with their arms stretched out in front, holding the ring or toy as if it’s a steering wheel.

2. "Green Light" - Kick Legs and Blow Bubbles
   When you say "green light," the child starts kicking their legs gently while keeping their face in the water. They should also blow bubbles in the water, practicing controlled breathing.

3. "Red Light" - Stop Kicking
   When you say "red light," the child stops kicking and stays still, floating gently in the water.

4. Turn Right, Turn Left
   Give instructions to turn right or left, encouraging the child to practice turning their body, mimicking the action of steering while keeping their arms stretched out.

5. Beep the Horn and Wave
   Call out for the child to "beep the horn" and wave, just like they’re driving and greeting others. It’s a fun way to engage them while also building arm coordination.

6. "Go Slow," "Go Fast"
   Let the child practice controlling the speed of their movements. Tell them to go slow and then go fast, helping them learn to control their body while floating and kicking.

7. Repeat "Green Light" and "Red Light"
   Continue switching between "green light" and "red light," letting the child practice kicking and resting, turning, and blowing bubbles.

8. End the Game - Turn Off the Engine
   At the end of the game, say "turn off the engine" as a fun way to wind down the activity.

Praise and Encouragement

Make sure to cheer them on when they successfully blow bubbles, kick their legs, or make turns. This builds confidence and makes them feel proud of their progress.

This exercise is an excellent way to practice front floating, kicking, and blowing bubbles in a playful way that feels like an adventure! It strengthens key swimming skills while making bath time a fun learning experience.

Home Practice - Bath - Driving 3

This is the most advanced version of the "Driving" game and encourages the child to practice front floating, kicking, and holding their breath while submerging their whole face underwater. It's an exciting way for the child to build confidence and practice essential swimming skills in a fun, interactive way!

Steps:

1. Child Lies on Belly
   Have the child lie down on their belly in the bath, holding the ring or toy as a steering wheel with arms stretched forward.

2. "Green Light" - Kick Legs and Blow Bubbles
   As you say "green light," the child starts kicking their legs gently and blowing bubbles in the water, focusing on maintaining a steady rhythm.

3. "Red Light" - Stop Kicking and Float
   On "red light," the child stops kicking, floats calmly, and practices controlled breathing. This will help them maintain their body position and develop a feeling of buoyancy.

4. Turn Right, Turn Left
   Give instructions to turn right or left, mimicking steering while maintaining their floating position and keeping their arms extended forward.

5. Beep the Horn and Wave
   Encourage the child to beep the horn and wave, adding some fun interactions while also working on arm movements and coordination.

6. "Go Slow," "Go Fast"
   Switch between "go slow" and "go fast" to practice speed control, helping the child develop balance and coordination in the water.

7. Submerge Entire Face Underwater
   As part of the "green light," encourage the child to take a big breath and submerge their whole face underwater for a moment. It’s important to ensure they feel comfortable and safe with their face in the water before progressing.

8. Repeat "Green Light" and "Red Light"
   Continue alternating between "green light" and "red light," giving the child opportunities to practice kicking, turning, and holding their breath while keeping their face submerged for increasing amounts of time.

9. End the Game - "Turn Off the Engine"
   Wind down the activity by saying "turn off the engine," signaling the end of the game, and allowing the child to float peacefully for a few seconds.

Praise and Encouragement

Encourage the child every time they successfully submerge their face and perform the actions correctly. Praise them for taking deep breaths, kicking their legs, and maintaining their focus. The more relaxed and confident they feel, the more they will enjoy the activity!

This is an excellent exercise to build confidence and develop advanced skills for swimming, particularly breath control, front floating, and submerging the face underwater. It helps to prepare them for real swimming experiences in the water while still having fun!

Home Practice - Bath - Rings 1

This is a fantastic exercise to build your child’s confidence in the water while incorporating fun and engaging play! By using your child’s favorite toy, you'll demonstrate how to collect and drop the rings into the water. Your child will then get to practice collecting the rings, starting with their face above the water. This exercise helps them feel more comfortable in the water and encourages active participation.

Steps:

1. Use Your Child's Favorite Toy
   Start by choosing your child’s favorite toy to help demonstrate the activity. Show them how the toy can "collect" the rings, adding a playful element to the exercise.

2. Drop the Rings into the Water
   Drop the rings gently into the water and explain that your child will now have to collect them. Make sure the rings float, so your child can easily grab them.

3. Collect the Rings with Face Above the Water
   Demonstrate how to reach for the rings with your face above the water. Encourage your child to follow your lead. Start with the face above the water, allowing them to feel secure while practicing the action.

4. Praise Your Child
   As soon as your child collects the rings, praise them generously! A high-five or words of encouragement will help build their confidence.

5. Repeat the Exercise
   Repeat this exercise 3 to 5 times, gradually making it a fun and engaging routine. The more they practice, the more comfortable they will become with the task.

Benefits:

• Builds Confidence: This activity helps your child feel safe and confident in the water, making it easier for them to practice other skills.

• Active Participation: It encourages movement and coordination, helping the child develop motor skills while playing.

• Fun & Engaging: Using a favorite toy keeps the activity fun and enjoyable, so your child will look forward to practicing.

By starting with their face above the water, your child will gradually get used to being in the water and feel more comfortable before advancing to other skills like submerging their face.

Home Practice - Bath - Rings 2

This is an advanced version of the Ring Collection exercise, where the child practices submerging their face underwater to collect the rings. By using a toy to demonstrate the actions, the child can easily follow along and mimic the movements. This exercise helps build both water confidence and breath control while making the activity fun.

Steps:

1. Use the Toy for Demonstration
   Begin by using a favorite toy to demonstrate the advanced version of the exercise. Pretend that the toy takes a deep breath and dives underwater to collect the rings. This playful element will make it easier for your child to understand the exercise while keeping it fun.

2. Blowing Bubbles (Face Above Water)
   First, have your child practice the exercise with their face above the water while blowing bubbles. This will allow them to get used to the movement and help them feel more comfortable before fully submerging.

3. Submerge the Face Underwater
   Once the child is confident blowing bubbles, encourage them to try submerging their whole face underwater to collect the rings. Praise them when they attempt it, and remind them to take a good breath before diving in.

4. Introduce Goggles
   If the child is ready, this is a great time to introduce goggles. Show your child how the toy can collect the rings underwater while wearing goggles. You can also use a baby doll or another toy to demonstrate the goggles to make the experience more relatable and fun.

5. Practice with Parent's Encouragement
   Continue practicing with your child, encouraging them to try collecting the rings underwater, either with or without goggles. Praise their efforts and make sure they feel supported and comfortable.

6. Repeat & Praise
   Keep practicing and repeat the exercise as many times as needed. Always offer praise, positive feedback, and high-fives to make the experience enjoyable and boost their confidence.

Benefits:

• Improves Breath Control: This exercise teaches children to hold their breath and stay calm while submerging their face underwater, which is an essential skill in swimming.

• Boosts Water Confidence: By practicing submerging their face, children become more comfortable with their face in the water, preparing them for future swimming skills.

• Introduces Goggles: This is an excellent opportunity to introduce goggles, which can help the child feel more comfortable and confident when their face is underwater.

• Fun & Engaging: The use of a toy and pretend play adds excitement to the activity, making it a fun and enjoyable learning experience.

By practicing this exercise, your child will gain more comfort and confidence in the water, and they'll be better prepared to tackle more advanced swimming skills. ?

Home Practice - Bath - Front Floating 1

This exercise focuses on teaching your child to become comfortable with front floating while practicing breathing control and face submersion. Using a toy to demonstrate can make it more fun and engaging for the child.

Steps:

1. Use a Toy for Demonstration
   Start by using your child's favorite toy to demonstrate the front floating position. Show the toy lying on its belly, blowing bubbles, and submerging its face underwater. This will help the child visualize the correct actions in a playful way.

2. Child Lies on Belly
   Have your child lie down on their belly in the bath. Encourage them to blow bubbles gently to get comfortable with the motion and breathing.

3. Take a Good Breath
   Guide your child to take a deep breath in, just like the toy did, before they submerge their whole face underwater.

4. Submerge Face Underwater
   After taking a deep breath, encourage your child to submerge their face underwater for a brief moment. Start with just a second or two, and gradually increase the time as they become more confident.

5. Praise and Encourage
   Praise your child after each attempt, whether they submerge their face fully or just try to blow bubbles. Offer a high-five or other positive reinforcement to keep the experience fun and motivating.

Benefits:

• Improves Breath Control: This exercise helps children practice holding their breath while floating and submerging their face underwater.

• Builds Confidence: Submerging the face underwater helps the child get used to having their face in the water, which is important for future swimming skills.

• Develops Coordination: The child will practice the coordination of breathing, floating, and submerging their face—all while building water confidence.

• Fun & Engaging: By using a toy for demonstration, the exercise feels playful, which keeps the child excited about learning.

Encourage your child to practice this exercise regularly, and always praise their efforts to ensure they feel supported and confident. ?‍♀️

Home Practice - Bath - Front Floating 2

This exercise helps your child get comfortable holding their breath and submerging their whole face underwater while in the front floating position. It's great for building water confidence and gradually increasing their breath-holding abilities.

Steps:

1. Fill the Bath to a Comfortable Level
   Fill the bottom of the bath with enough water so that your child can comfortably lie on their belly, with their face just below the waterline. The water should be deep enough to cover the face when they lie down but not too deep to overwhelm them.

2. Child Lies on Their Belly
   Have your child lie on their belly in the water. Their face should be near the surface, and their body should be relaxed and supported by the water. Ensure their arms are stretched out in front of them for balance and stability.

3. Take a Big Breath
   Encourage your child to take a big breath in, expanding their chest to prepare for the breath-hold.

4. Submerge Face Underwater
   Guide your child to place their whole face underwater. Start with just 2 seconds of breath-holding and gradually increase it up to 5 seconds. Be sure to praise your child after every attempt!

5. Gradually Increase Duration
   Start with 2 seconds of holding their breath underwater. As your child becomes more comfortable, increase the time to 3, then 4, and finally 5 seconds. Ensure they feel relaxed and confident before progressing to the next time length.

6. Praise and Encourage
   After each successful attempt, celebrate their accomplishment with praise and a big high five! Positive reinforcement will help them feel encouraged to keep practicing.

Benefits:

• Building Confidence: The exercise helps your child become more comfortable with submerging their face underwater, which is a key step in learning how to swim.

• Breath-Holding Practice: This is a great exercise to practice breath control, which is important for all swimming techniques.

• Gradual Progression: Starting with shorter breath holds and gradually increasing the time helps your child build the skill step-by-step without feeling overwhelmed.

• Improves Water Comfort: The more your child practices submerging their face in the water, the more comfortable they will become in the water.

Tips:

• Always encourage your child to take slow, deep breaths before submerging their face underwater.

• Keep the atmosphere calm and reassuring, allowing your child to go at their own pace.

• If your child feels uneasy, reassure them that it's okay to take small steps and practice gradually.

Home Practice - Bath - Back Floating 1

This exercise focuses on helping your child feel comfortable and confident in the back floating position in the bath. It's great for building a foundation of relaxation and confidence in the water, using the feeling of safety and support from the water around them. Incorporating their favorite toys will make the practice more enjoyable and engaging!

Steps:

1. Fill the Bath to a Comfortable Level
   Begin by filling up the bottom of the bath with enough water so your child can comfortably feel the water around their body but also feel the bottom of the bath beneath them for support. This ensures they feel secure and confident while floating on their back.

2. Child Lies on Their Back
   Help your child gently lie back in the water, ensuring their head is supported and their body is relaxed. Their feet should be near the bottom of the bath, so they can feel the support of the surface while still floating.

3. Encourage Relaxation
   Let your child experience the sensation of floating, with their body fully supported by the water. Encourage them to relax and take a deep breath in. Explain that the water will keep them safe and secure as they float.

4. Incorporate Favorite Toys
   To make this exercise more fun, use your child's favorite toy to demonstrate. You can place the toy on its back in the water to show your child how it floats. This playful approach can help them feel more relaxed and engaged in the activity.

5. Praise and Encourage
   Praise your child for staying relaxed and floating on their back, even if it's only for a few seconds. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in building their confidence.

Benefits:

• Builds Confidence in Water: The child gets accustomed to the feeling of floating and being supported by the water, which helps build their confidence.

• Promotes Relaxation: Floating on their back encourages children to relax and get used to staying still in the water, which is an important skill for swimming safety.

• Engaging & Fun: By using toys, the practice becomes more fun and engaging, encouraging children to continue practicing without feeling pressured.

• Breathing Practice: This exercise allows children to practice breathing while relaxed on their back, which is an essential skill for swimming.

Tips:

• Make sure the water is not too deep, especially if it's the first time your child is floating. You want them to feel safe.

• Keep the atmosphere calm and reassuring. Your child will feel more comfortable if they trust you and the process.

Home Practice - Bath - Back Floating 2

This exercise is designed to help your child practice back floating in a fully-filled bath, helping them gain confidence with maintaining the correct position while floating on their back. By supporting their head and ensuring they are relaxed, you are reinforcing a sense of security and comfort in the water.

Steps:

1. Fill the Bath Completely
   Fill the bath with enough water so that your child will not feel the bottom of the bath when lying on their back. The water should be deep enough to give the sensation of floating without touching the floor.

2. Help the Child Lie on Their Back
   Gently assist your child as they lie back into the water, making sure they are comfortable and supported. Ensure they feel secure and calm as they float. Their body should be in a straight line, with their face above the water.

3. Support the Child's Head
   While your child is lying on their back, gently support their head, ensuring that their chin is high up to the sky. This position helps to keep the body in the correct floating alignment and relaxes their body in the water.

4. Count to 5
   Once your child is in the back floating position with their head supported and their body relaxed, count up to 5 to give them a sense of time. Encourage them to remain still and calm while floating.

5. Sit Up and Praise
   After reaching 5 seconds, help your child sit up. Celebrate their achievement by offering lots of praise and a big high five! Positive reinforcement boosts their confidence.

6. Repeat
   Repeat the back floating exercise a few more times, supporting their head each time. This repetition helps your child get used to the sensation of floating on their back and reinforces the correct body position.

Benefits:

• Builds Comfort with Floating: As your child gets used to floating on their back, they will develop confidence and familiarity with the correct floating position.

• Improves Body Awareness: The exercise helps your child become more aware of their body in the water, teaching them how to relax and maintain a proper body position.

• Increases Water Confidence: Floating on the back can feel unfamiliar and sometimes unsettling, but with gentle support, your child will gain the confidence to float independently.

• Encourages Relaxation: Back floating teaches children to relax in the water, which is a critical skill for safety and swimming.

Tips:

• Always reassure your child that they are safe, and go at their own pace. The goal is to make them feel comfortable with the process.

• Use gentle and soothing words to encourage relaxation as they float.

• If your child is feeling nervous, start by practicing in a shallower bath or adding toys to help them feel more at ease.

• Celebrate each step, even the small milestones, to keep your child motivated and excited about practicing!

Home Practice - Bath - Back Floating 3

This is the most advanced version of back floating at home, designed to help your child practice floating independently. With a full bath, your child will gain confidence in floating on their back without assistance. Encouraging the use of toys to demonstrate or teach the skill adds an element of fun while reinforcing learning.

Steps:

1. Fill the Bath Completely
   Make sure the bath is filled with enough water, so the child does not feel the bottom of the tub when they lie on their back. The water should be deep enough to create a floating sensation while maintaining safety.

2. Child Lies on Their Back
   Have your child lie down on their back in the water. Ensure they feel supported and safe. Encourage them to keep their chin high up to the sky and look at the ceiling or above them. This is crucial for maintaining the correct back floating position.

3. Encourage Independent Floating
   This time, allow your child to try floating independently. Let them relax and practice the correct position with their body fully supported by the water. Praise them for their efforts.

4. Use Toys to Demonstrate
   Use a favorite toy or doll to demonstrate the back floating technique. You can also let your child "teach" the toy how to float on its back. This engages your child and makes the practice more playful and fun.

5. Encourage Relaxation
   Remind your child to relax and stay still while floating. Floating on their back should be a calm, restful experience. Encourage them to take deep breaths and keep their body loose and relaxed.

6. Practice and Praise
   Allow your child to practice back floating on their own. Praise them for every attempt, whether they float for a few seconds or longer. Celebrate each successful float with lots of praise and encouragement.

Benefits:

• Promotes Independence: By practicing independent back floating, your child will gain more confidence in their ability to float and control their position in the water.

• Strengthens Relaxation Skills: Independent floating encourages your child to trust the water and relax, building the essential skills needed for longer durations in the water.

• Improves Body Awareness: Floating on the back without support helps your child develop better control over their body positioning in the water.

• Increases Water Confidence: As your child masters back floating independently, they will become more confident in their swimming abilities, laying the foundation for future swimming techniques.

Tips:

• Always remind your child to keep their chin up to maintain the correct back floating position.

• Keep the atmosphere relaxed and fun. If your child feels nervous or uncertain, gently reassure them and encourage them to try again.

• If your child enjoys using toys, make it a game where they "teach" their toy to float. This adds a playful element that keeps them engaged.

• Offer plenty of praise and high-fives for each step they achieve in mastering back floating independently.

Washing Hair 1 - Building Trust and Comfort

For many children, washing their hair can be a stressful experience, especially if they dislike water running over their face. This exercise introduces a gentle approach to help your child become more comfortable with hair washing while maintaining trust and making it an enjoyable routine.

Steps:

1. Prepare Your Child

   • If your child is hesitant about washing their hair, show them the video

   • Explain that you will be very careful to keep water and foam away from their face.

2. Use a Gentle Technique

   • Tilt your child’s head slightly backward to prevent water from running down their face.

   • Use a cup or a handheld showerhead with low pressure to pour water slowly and gently over their hair.

3. Protect the Face

   • Use your hand or a dry washcloth as a barrier on their forehead to prevent water from dripping onto their face.

   • Encourage your child to look up at the ceiling and relax.

4. Make It Fun

   • Sing a song, tell a story, or let them hold a favorite toy to keep them engaged. you can first wash a toy's hair

   • Praise them after each step and give them a high-five for their bravery.

5. Build Trust

   
   

   • Let them feel in control by giving them a small cup to pour water on their own hair.

Why This Helps:

• Prevents fear of water over the face.

• Builds trust and comfort with hair washing.

• Encourages a positive and stress-free bath time experience.

Washing Hair 2 - Encouraging Independence

This exercise helps children take control of washing their own hair while also practicing back floating in the bath. By making it a fun and independent experience, they will build confidence and get more comfortable with water on their face.

Steps:

1. Give Your Child a Cup

   • Let your child scoop water and wet their own hair.

   • Encourage them to take their time and enjoy the process.

2. Apply Shampoo

   • Hand them a small amount of shampoo and guide them to lather it up.

   • Make it fun by creating "shampoo hairstyles" before rinsing.

3. Rinse While Back Floating

   • Have your child gently lie back into a back float position.

   • Encourage them to relax, keeping their chin up and looking at the ceiling.

   • Rinse the shampoo out while they float.

4. Praise and Celebrate

   • Give them a high-five for doing it all by themselves!

   • If they enjoy it, repeat and let them practice more.

Why This Helps:

✔ Encourages independence in washing hair.
✔ Builds confidence in back floating.
✔ Makes hair washing a stress-free and fun experience.

? Tip: If your child is nervous about floating, support their head gently at first until they feel comfortable.

Rolling Over (Belly to Back) – Bath -  Home Practice

Before practicing themselves, encourage your child to help a baby doll roll from its belly to its back. Show them how to gently guide the doll . Once they understand the motion, have them lie on their tummy and practice rolling over. Celebrate their efforts with praise and make it fun by pretending to be different animals rolling over!

Rolling Over (Back to Belly) – Bath- Home Practice

Start by letting your child practice rolling a baby doll from its back to its belly.  Then, have them lie on their back and encourage them to turn their head toward a toy or a fun object.  Encourage them to complete the motion on their own, and cheer them on as they build strength and coordination!

Home Practice – Bath – Goggles

To help your toddler or preschooler get comfortable wearing goggles, start by introducing them during bath time in a fun and relaxed way. First, let them try the goggles on a doll or their favorite toy if possible. Show them how the goggles work and let them explore by touching and playing with them.

Now, ask if they would like to try the goggles on. If they say no, don’t worry—just have the goggles with you at every bath time so they become familiar with them. If they say yes, gently place the goggles on their eyes first and ask them to hold them in place. While they are holding the goggles, carefully pull the strap over their head. Once the strap is in place, they can stop holding the goggles, and you can gently release the pressure to make sure the goggles are covering their eyes without feeling too tight or suctioning too strongly.

Encourage them to put their face in the water while wearing the goggles, starting with just dipping their chin, then their nose, and eventually their whole face. Make it playful by asking them to look for toys underwater or blow bubbles while wearing them. Praise their efforts and keep the experience positive to build confidence for future swimming lessons!

Beginners: Home Practice for Swimming Confidence

In this chapter, I will guide you through fun and engaging games that you can practice at home, both on land and in the bath. These swimming exercises are designed for beginners—children with little to no water experience or those who feel scared around water.

The games will gently introduce your child to the water, build their confidence, and help them become comfortable with water on their face and holding their breath.

Repeat and practice these exercises and lesson plans as often as needed until your child masters each swimming skill.

Most importantly—have fun!

Intermediate Swimmers: Home Swimming Practice

In this chapter, we will focus on building on the skills your child has mastered in the previous stages. These exercises are designed for intermediate swimmers who are ready to develop more independence in the water and refine their techniques.

Your child will practice breath control while underwater, improve their floating abilities (both front and back), and begin working on basic strokes like kicking and arm movements. The exercises can be done at home, in the bath, or even in a shallow pool to help build comfort and muscle memory.

Continue practicing these skills until your child feels confident with their swimming abilities. And as always—make sure the experience remains enjoyable and stress-free!

Advanced Swimmers: Home Swimming Practice

In this chapter, children will practice the most advanced exercises that can be done at home. These exercises are designed to build confidence in breath holding, front floating, back floating, and introduce rolling over in the bath, helping to develop water orientation in a simple and approachable way.

As you work on these advanced skills at home, remember to continue practicing them in the swimming pool to reinforce their learning and comfort in the water.