Water safety SpongeBob-style!
We’re featuring swimming games inspired by TV and cinema hero, SpongeBob SquarePants, in our children’s swimming lessons for the next few weeks – but why?
Well, research by Swim England reveals that 70% of children do not achieve all four essential water safety competencies, while more than half are withdrawn from swimming lessons before they do, depriving them of the competencies which could save their life one day.
Why you should not take your child out of swimming lessons too soon
Many parents believe swimming a 25m length is a safe distance, but real safety requires more.
The four water safety essentials are:
- Swimming 100 metres
- Treading water for 60 seconds
- Floating for 30 seconds
- Swimming in clothing
Children aren’t assessed as being fully competent in these skills until they reach stages 6 and 7 of their swimming lessons.
The playful, SpongeBob inspired activities are designed to boost your child’s confidence in the water while making learning even more enjoyable to help them achieve these potentially life-saving skills.
Why are we doing this now?
These fun and educational games are part of a national campaign to help children build confidence in the water and stay safe — all while having a blast!
The ‘splash-tastic’ activities have been created by Swim England and inspired by The SpongeBob Movie: Search For SquarePants, in cinemas now.
So, between now and late March, our young swimmers will join SpongeBob and friends on an underwater adventure, learning through play and imagination.
