What this swimming skill is
Here your child travels a short way with the head up, using gentle arm sweeps and a slow kick. It looks a bit like a calm doggy paddle. The point is not speed: it is seeing and breathing easily while heading for a way out.
It builds on the restful strokes, like sidestroke. Next, your child learns to roll onto the back to rest in the middle of a swim.
Why it matters
Seeing the way out.
Your child can keep the wall, steps or ladder in sight as they move.
Breathing freely.
With the face clear, breathing is easy, which helps your child stay calm.
Confidence in the water.
Knowing they can reach the side with the head up is reassuring for children and adults alike.
Who it is for
Children, teens, adults and seniors all benefit from this skill. Children usually learn it once they can move on their own and are comfortable in water where they can stand. If you are learning as an adult, especially later in life, it is reassuring to know you can reach the side. You can do it with your head up the whole way.
Over a short distance
The goal
Your child moves 5 metres with the face clear, breathing easily the whole way. They reach a wall, step or ladder without wearing themselves out.
