DAY TRIPS
SWIM SAFETY TIPS FOR SUMMER Here are the top five swimming tips for youngsters from Edward Williams, owner of Elite Swimming Academy and Channel swimmer 1. Build confidence at home Introduce some swimming skills from the comfort of your own home at bath time! The majority of young children do not enjoy getting their faces wet at first when going swimming, so get them used to it even before you enter the pool. Getting your child to blow bubbles in the bath is a great first step to getting them comfortable with water and also a fantastic introduction to swimming breathing techniques. 2. Make it fun When you do decide to take the next step and go to a pool, keep it fun! Splash, blow bubbles, play with toys and at the same time perhaps try and teach some arm movements or leg kicks. For those more confident children, throw in some pool sinkers for them to retrieve. 3. Positive reinforcement Nothing motivates a child more than parental approval – and maybe the odd treat! When your child achieves something new such as the first time they get their face wet, submerge, or doggy paddle independently, make a huge deal of it and celebrate their success. This will motivate them to do it even more – and before you know it, they will be growing in confidence and skills. ESA offers intensive, five-day courses that run throughout the summer holiday, suitable for ages 3-11. Book at eliteswimmingacademy.co.uk
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK JULY 2023 35
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