Swimsafer Stage 1

Yes, it is possible for a child with a water phobia to learn how to swim. Overcoming a fear of water can be a gradual process that requires patience, understanding, and proper guidance. Here are a few steps you can take to help your child learn to swim despite their water phobia:
Seek professional guidance: Enroll your child in swimming lessons taught by experienced instructors who are skilled in working with children who have water phobias or anxieties. They can provide the necessary support and guidance tailored to your child’s needs.
Start with familiarization: Begin by gradually introducing your child to the water in a controlled and safe environment. Encourage them to dip their toes in the water, splash around, or play with toys in the shallow end. Familiarization can help reduce anxiety and build confidence.
Take it slowly: Allow your child to progress at their own pace. It’s important not to rush or force them into situations that make them uncomfortable. Gradually introduce them to deeper water, always maintaining a supportive and reassuring presence.
Use flotation devices: Provide your child with appropriate flotation devices, such as life jackets or arm floaties, to help them feel secure and confident in the water. These devices can provide an added sense of safety while they learn to swim.
Positive reinforcement: Encourage and praise your child’s efforts and progress, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement helps build confidence and creates a positive association with swimming.
Make it fun: Incorporate enjoyable activities and games into swimming sessions. Fun activities can help distract your child from their fears and make the learning process more enjoyable.
Be patient and supportive: Overcoming a water phobia takes time and patience. Offer your child plenty of emotional support, reassurance, and understanding throughout the learning process.
Remember, each child is unique, and it may take some time for your child to feel comfortable in the water. It’s crucial to respect their boundaries and never force them into situations that cause excessive distress. With patience, guidance, and professional support, your child can gradually overcome their water phobia and learn to swim. Read more about water phobia here.

Item #2 -Floating on Back and item #6- Ability to swim 10m using either freestyle or breaststroke.

If your child fails the SwimSafer Stage 1 test in their MOE (Ministry of Education) SwimSafer program, there are a few options available:
Option #1– Retake the test: Your child can have another opportunity to retake the SwimSafer Stage 1 test after some additional practice and preparation (you can find one with your friend’s recommendation or any existing swimming classes that your child’s best friend is also learning swimming to join him).

Option #2– Talk to the instructor or the program coordinator to understand the specific requirements and expectations for the test. They can provide guidance on areas that need improvement and suggest strategies for success.

Option #3– Participate in remedial classes: The SwimSafer program may offer remedial classes or additional practice sessions for children who did not pass the test. These classes can provide focused attention and additional instruction to help your child strengthen their skills and improve their performance. CHeck with the MOE Teacher.

Option #4– Continue swimming lessons: If your child did not pass Stage 1, it might be beneficial to continue regular swimming lessons to further develop their swimming abilities. Consistent practice and instruction can help build confidence and improve skills over time. Your child can work on the specific areas they struggled with during the test and gradually progress to meet the Stage 1 requirements.

Option #5– Consider private lessons: If your child needs more individualized attention or has specific areas that require extra focus, you might consider private swimming lessons. A qualified swimming instructor can tailor the lessons to your child’s needs and work on the specific skills necessary and preparing them well for passing the SwimSafer Stage 1 test.

Option #6– Join our 6 days holiday swimsafer program. It is an exciting aquatic adventure that promises to enhance your child’s swimming skills and provide endless fun in the water. Whether you’re a beginner seeking to overcome your fear of water or an advanced swimmer aiming to refine your technique, this program offers a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for individuals of all ages and abilities. The enrolment is open in Aug-Sept for Dec Holiday swim program and Mar-April for June Holiday Swim Program. Read more here.

Remember that failing the test is not uncommon, and it does not mean that your child cannot succeed in learning to swim. It is essential to provide encouragement and support to help them overcome any setbacks and keep them motivated to continue their swimming journey.

Swim remedial classes, also known as swimming remediation or swimming lessons, are instructional programs designed to help individuals improve their swimming skills and overcome any difficulties they may be facing in the water. These classes are typically offered to beginners or individuals who have limited experience in swimming or may have developed certain fears or challenges associated with swimming.

Check with your MOE School Teacher on such class arrangement. Usually those who failed the swimsafer test will have the opportunity to do such remedial classes. It will be held during the weekday or weekend evening or night time at certain swimming complex.

Swim remedial classes are often conducted by certified swimming instructors or coaches who provide specialized guidance and support to participants. The classes aim to address specific needs and challenges faced by individuals, such as overcoming water phobias, improving water confidence, developing proper stroke techniques, enhancing breathing control, and building overall swimming proficiency.

In these classes, participants may receive personalized attention and instruction tailored to their skill level and specific areas of improvement. The instructors may use various teaching methods, including demonstrations, drills, and practice exercises, to help participants gradually overcome their limitations and become more comfortable and competent swimmers.
Swim remedial classes can be offered in a variety of settings, such as swimming pools, aquatic centers, or community centers. They may be organized as group lessons or provided on an individual basis, depending on the needs and preferences of the participants.
Overall, swim remedial classes provide an opportunity for individuals to receive structured guidance and training in swimming, helping them develop confidence, safety skills, and proficiency in the water.

Swimming can be introduced at a young age, and it is generally recommended to start swimming lessons around the age of 4 or 5. However, the ideal age to start swimming can vary depending on several factors, including the child’s individual development, comfort level in the water, and availability of appropriate swimming programs.
Here are a few considerations regarding the age to start swimming:
Readiness and comfort: It is important that a child is developmentally ready and comfortable in the water before beginning swimming lessons. This typically occurs around 4 to 5 years old when they have better control over their body movements and can follow basic instructions.

Water safety: Learning to swim at an early age can be beneficial for water safety. Acquiring essential water skills and knowledge can help prevent accidents and build confidence in and around water.
Available programs: Look for swimming programs specifically designed for young children. These programs often focus on water familiarization, basic water skills, and water safety. They provide a supportive and fun environment for children to develop their swimming abilities.

Parental involvement: For younger children, parent-child swimming classes can be a great way to introduce them to the water. These classes often involve parental participation and provide a bonding experience while teaching fundamental water skills.
Individual readiness: Every child is different, and readiness for swimming can vary. Some children may show interest in water activities at an early age, while others may take longer to feel comfortable. It is important to consider your child’s individual development and comfort level when deciding to start swimming lessons.

Ultimately, the decision to start swimming lessons should be based on the readiness and comfort level of the child, as well as the availability of appropriate swimming programs. It is also essential to remember that swimming should always be supervised, regardless of a child’s age or swimming ability, to ensure their safety in and around water.

You can get more information here.

You can join our weekly swim classes as a form of remedial class. Sign up here.