There is no big jump from beginners to intermediates. Instead, it is part of a gradual process that builds on all the skills that your child has learned in the previous articles, so that he is not only able to swim, but truly loves the water.
Remember that you should progress only when your child is comfortable, practice consistently in enjoyable lessons, and avoid frustration by only practicing complex activities for short intervals and at times when your child’s energy levels are highest.
Water Pouring Station and Activity Circuit
As for beginners, the Water Pouring Station and Activity Circuit are still key parts of the learning process. But whereas with beginners most of the Activity Circuit was carried out in their parent’s arms or on top of the water, now
your child may carry out some of the exercises with his face in the water, and with less assistance.
Games and songs
These still play a very important role in teaching your child at the intermediate levels, and group games become more valuable as your child learns to copy and imitate his peers. This helps him to overcome his fears as he will watch other children performing the actions he is nervous about. He will also learn to share toys or your attention with others.
Lesson plan
Use the suggested lesson plans given at the start of each intermediates stage as the basis of your 30-minute lessons, but amend them to suit your child’s readiness, experience, abilities, and skill level. The basic structure of the lesson should remain relatively similar, but as your child learns more skills, they can be absorbed into the regular structure of your lessons. Try and have at least two, and ideally four, lessons per week, as this continuity will help your child learn quickly and retain skills—long breaks may require periods of re-learning.
To keep your child interested in the lesson and to practice all the skills he has learned, limit the time spent on any one activity to seven minutes or less. Make sure you enjoy the lesson and do not rush, but remember that a young child’s attention span may be best suited to changing intervals of play.
Thanks for Reading.