- Check the space and the kit.
- Get your child's attention first.
- Show it from two sides.
- Say one thing only.
- End on one that works.
Put the phone down where you can see it. Tap Next with your thumb, or use the arrow keys.
Is the space marked?
A pool; goggles optional.
Three minutes to get warm.
Easy jogging on the spot, then arms and legs. How to warm up well is explained at workonfitness.com.
- Point out the deep end, the lifeguard and the side the child will swim to.
- Show the back float: lie back, arms and legs spread, tummy up.
- Show treading water: upright, legs moving slowly, hands pressing the water.
Show it once from the front and once from the side, slowly. Then let your child try.
- Swim 25 m unaided.
- In deep water, float on the back with no goggles while you count.
- Tread water for the time the coach asks.
- Swim to the side and climb out.
How much: 1 test
Eyes open under water, slowly
Ready test
The rules
Score each part of the test, and beat your best next week.
- Swim 25 m
- Float on the back in deep water for up to 30 seconds while you count aloud
- Tread water for up to 30 seconds
- Swim to the side and climb out without help
Fair play: A child still learning to swim does the floating and treading in water where they can stand, until ready.
- Points
- 4 points for the 25 m without stopping; 1 point for every 10 seconds of floating; 1 point for every 10 seconds of treading water; 1 point for a calm climb out.
- Fouls
- No points for that part: holding the side or a float; goggles on for the deep-water parts; standing on the bottom
- Win
- Beat your best score; 11 points is the full test.
- 4
- 8
- 11
25 m unaided and 30 seconds comfortable in deep water without goggles.
End on one that works. If it was hard today, finish with the easier version.
Well played.
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