Infant: 2-3.5 Years Parent & Child

Swimming Skills

Water Safety Criteria

Safe entry – using elbows or hands to lower self slowly into the pool
"Monkey, Monkey" – may start using whole hand or forearm to work way along the pool edge
Mat walk – faster than previous and may begin to experiment with jumping on or wobbling the mat as they gain skills and confidence, begin to push themselves with jump off the end of the mat or deep squat to jump and propel themselves off the mat
Extending "Humpty Dumpty" to "Crocodile, Crocodile" – If children can jump two-footed over a line on land then they may be encouraged to jump into the pool for "Crocodile, Crocodile".
Blowing balls across the water - children will not necessarily understand how or be able to blow bubbles under water; trying to "blow out a candle" or blow a ball across the surface of the water encourages to make the correct lip shape for blowing bubbles
Noodles as ‘speed boats’ – children understand the concept of a boat promoting imagination and helping solidify the concept and expectation of experience. We may see, with help, children begin to extend their legs during kicking, however primarily it will be kicking from the knee due to muscle development
Boogie Boards – are easier for children to use than noodles, requiring less coordination and balance when supported by a parent or carer

Physical

Social

Emotional

Shows strong attachment to a parent (or main family carer)
Shows distress and protest when they leave and wants that person to do things for them
Begins to show guilt or remorse for misdeeds
May be less likely to willingly share toys with peers
Demands adult attention

Cognitive

Language