By Niamh Thomas, Turtle Tots Mayo
Jumping is a key element of developing a child’s motor skills, and it’s a huge milestone for toddlers when they jump into the pool for the first time. It’s a skill first introduced in our Octopus level, and an important one because it really is a leap of faith, for you and for them!
From the very first time they jump in from the side or the mat, you can see the pure joy on their little faces. It’s a fun activity we encourage and love to introduce in the safe and supervised space of our lessons.
Once babies and toddlers can stand, they’ll start learning to first step out, and then later jump, into the pool for you to collect. We’ll teach them to wait and listen until they hear your cue – this is really important – and then to look before they leap. Safety always comes first.
Small Steps to Giant Leaps
To begin with, babies will stand on a thick foam mat supported by their teacher – this prevents any accidental falls from doing any harm. Walking to the edge and holding their parent’s hands, their first big step over the edge is totally on their terms – and from their perspective, it looks a long way down! The excitement, the thrill, and most importantly the splashes and the giggles afterwards fast become every kid’s favourite part of their lesson.
In the following weeks they’ll build up the confidence to jump without you holding their hand; toes to the edge, knees bent, and jumping away from the wall and under the water before being scooped up in to the safe arms of their parent.
Communication Is Key
Simple phrases like “1-2-3, Jump!” or “Ready, Set, Go!” help both of you to communicate safely when it comes to jumping in. At first, kids will want to leap in as soon as they are standing up, it’s just too much fun! But, it’s easy to see how this behaviour might cause an injury, or even worse, a drowning risk. We’ll teach kids to listen and wait until you say their favourite words before they leap. Learning to jump in the right way keeps them safe, and teaches an essential life skill at an age when kids need it most. We’ll keep it fun and light-hearted, whilst giving you some peace of mind.
Celebrate Every Attempt
Whether they do a full jump or just dip a toe, celebrate it! Positively builds confidence and self-esteem. High-fives, claps, or a little splishy splashy song all go a long way 🎶 Jumping in is an important submersion skill and building block for more advanced skills later, but it does take courage and trust. What seems like one small step to you can mean a giant leap to them, and when it does happen, you’ll both be jumping for joy.
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