Kicking and Floating: Building Essential Swim Skills

Swimming is a great activity for children! Not only is it fun, but it can also help build essential skills such as confidence, coordination, and strength. Two of the most important skills to learn when starting out with swimming are kicking and floating. In this article, we will discuss the best practices for mastering these skills.

Kicking

Learning how to kick is a crucial skill for swimming. It provides propulsion and helps move the body through the water. Here are a few tips to help children learn proper kicking technique:

1. Use a kickboard:

   A kickboard can help children concentrate on their kick technique by providing buoyancy and support.

2. Practice different kicks:

   There are a variety of kicks that can be used in swimming such as the flutter kick, dolphin kick, and scissor kick. Practice each one to find the one that works best for the child.

3. Keep the legs straight:

   When kicking, make sure to keep the legs straight and close together, with toes pointed.

Floating

Floating is another essential skill to learn in swimming. It allows the body to rest and conserve energy in the water. Here are some tips to help children learn how to float:

1. Relax:

   It’s important to stay relaxed when floating. Have the child take deep breaths and encourage them to release any tension in their body.

2. Use a noodle:

   A pool noodle can provide additional buoyancy and support while learning to float. Place the noodle under the child's arms or chest to help them stay afloat.

3. Practice different floating positions:

   Encourage your child to try various floating positions, such as the back float or the starfish float, to find the one they feel most comfortable with.

4. Build confidence:

   As your child becomes more comfortable with floating, gradually reduce the support provided by the noodle or other flotation devices, allowing them to gain confidence in their ability to float independently.

In conclusion, mastering kicking and floating skills is essential for any beginner swimmer. These skills lay the foundation for more advanced swimming techniques and can significantly contribute to a child's confidence and enjoyment in the water. By practicing and building these skills, your child will be well on their way to becoming a skilled and confident swimmer.