Swimming — Stroke Development
To develop swimming strokes and water safety skills through structured swimming lessons.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Physical Development
- Learning area: Physical Development
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Swims short distances unaided
- Shows developing stroke technique
- Follows water safety rules
- Demonstrates water confidence
Materials
- Swimming pool
- Floats and kickboards
- Qualified swimming instruction
- Water safety posters
Instructions
TEACHING FRONT CRAWL: Arms alternating, face in water, breathing to the side, flutter kick. Break into components and practise each separately.
INTRODUCING BACKSTROKE: 'Float on your back. Arms go over your head one at a time. Kick your legs!' Backstroke develops different muscles.
WATER SAFETY: 'Never swim alone. If someone falls in, SHOUT for help, don't jump in yourself. Float to survive.' Life-saving knowledge.
BUILDING DISTANCE: 'Last lesson you swam 5 metres. Today try 7!' Gradual distance building towards the goal of 25 metres.