A Parent's Guide to Starfish Swimming
What is Starfish Swimming®?
Buckeye Swim School is an independent authorized provider of Starfish Swimming. Starfish Swimming is a nationally recognized swim instruction curriculum developed by the Starfish Aquatics Institute (SAI). Learn more about SAI at www.starfishaquatics.org.
The Starfish Swimming curriculum is designed for students ages 6-months to adult. Benchmarks are established at each stage in the program that combine both swimming and safety skills. Students participate in experiential learning activities that allow them to explore the water in a creative and comfortable environment. Correct swimming techniques are taught from the very beginning, providing an easy transition to swim team.
Inside this guide, you will find the curriculum used in the StarBabies™/StarTots™ (ages 6 months to 36 months), and Starfish Swim School® (ages 3 and up) programs. Our swim instructors will communicate your child’s progression through the curriculum on a regular basis.
What role do I play in my child’s swimming development?
As a parent or caregiver, you play a vital role in your child’s swimming development. You have already taken the first step, by registering your child for swim lessons. Now, you must continue to communicate with your child’s instructor and practice, practice, practice!
The bathtub is a great place to start practicing! Bubbles, breath holding, looking underwater, floating, and kicking can all take place in the bathtub! A few trips to the pool between swim lessons are nice too! You shouldn’t feel the need to push children to do everything they are doing in swim lessons. Just give them the opportunity to get wet, splash around, and explore the water on their own terms.
But remember: supervision is a must! While swimming lessons are one layer of protection, nothing beats supervision. Keep your eyes on your child whenever you are in, on, or near the water!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. We’re here for you.
Buckeye Swim School
Laurie Karr, Managing Director 740-324-SWIM (7946)