Red Cross Swim Preschool Programs
Red Cross swim preschool programs
This seven level program is designed for children ages 4 months to 5 years, so your child can move forward quicker. This new structure has created more program opportunities for children to participate. Swimmers will move through levels 1 and 2 (Starfish and Duck) based on their age. Levels 3 - 7 (Sea Turtle, Salamander, Sun Fish, Crocodile, and Whale) focus on skill acquisition. Swimmers are evaluated by Instructors based on performance criteria. The new programs bring preschool lessons under the same expert agency (Canadian Red Cross) as 6 years + Red Cross swim kids programs.
What level should I register my child in for the new Swim Kids program?
Starfish 4 to 18 months (parented)
An introductory class for babies and their parent or caregiver. To enter this level, babies must be able to hold their head up. The goal of this orientation to water class is to experience buoyancy, movement, entries, and songs and play in the water.
Duck 18 to 36 months (parented)
For toddlers or older babies with a parent or caregiver. Toddlers build confidence while enjoying the water through games, songs, and active water play.
Sea Turtle 3 to 5 years
For children 3-5 years old who have not previously taken swim lessons, Sea Turtle is where they will enter the program. This level develops skills in swimming, glides, and floating and builds awareness of deep water and safe entries.
Sea Otter 3 to 5 years
Swimmers work on assisted front and back floats and glides, kicking on front and with a buoyant object and will be able to swim 1 metre upon completion of this level.
Salamander 3 to 5 years
Preschoolers actively learn new swimming skills including assisted floats and glides through games and songs. The fun includes learning to jump into chest deep water.
Sunfish 3 to 5 years
Assisted by an instructor, preschoolers work on stroke and skills progressions. Learning also focuses on good judgement in, on and around the water, and entries and floats in deep water.
Crocodile 3 to 5 years
Preschoolers start independent glides and kicking in deep water. Endurance is built through increasing distance for front and back swims. Swimmers learn about the dolphin kick and try synchro skills in the water.
Whale 3 to 5 years
In Whale, children will learn to swim independently and participate in team games. Preschoolers will increase their distance and improve skills in front and back swims. Swimmers also learn about throwing assists to help another person in the water.
Is your child over 6 years old?
If you have completed Whale and are 6 years of age, register in the Red Cross Swim Kids program. Or, if your child has never had lessons before and is 6 years of age or older, register them in the Red Cross Swim Kids program.
Last updated: Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Page ID: 5203