Price range: £0.60 through £1.75
Relaxed independent movement through the water on the swimmers back (with aids).
BE10
The first self propelled movement in the water is most definitely a huge achievement for many children. They will be able to hold a stable supine body position and propel themselves forwards on their back using their arms and/or their legs whilst using aids. This may well be towards the parent/carer or the teacher.
This is the 1st stage of water independence and confidence. Being able to move in any manner with aids but without the reassurance or support of an adult holding them celebrating both the trust they have gained in themselves and others by being able to self propel. Been able to float in the water themselves in a relaxed manner is the key first step to working towards movement. Moving on the back some children prefer initially and feel more confident about with their face being further away from the water. Please note to achieve this award the child’s ears do not have to submerged as this additional stimulation is a significant step further for children with additional needs.
The ability to stop/start when needed is good for control and building up independence. This award does not distinguish how the swimmer has moved in the pool insuring fully inclusion.
Lets build up on the confidence the swimmer has now achieved.
Games that involve stop/start swimming and that encourage swimmers to go from an vertical position to a horizontal position are great. It isn’t always about just moving but also the confidence to start themselves moving and getting into the correct position.
Start with small distances eg, from a wall to a parent holding a woggle. As the swimmers ability and confidence improves then the distance can be made greater. It is always good to promote the swimmer moving back to a place of safety.
It may take time for a swimmer to achieve this without hand held floats or woggles, gradually reduce the amount or size of additional aids as their confidence grows.