We can verify from our own experience that the sooner we begin to carry out an activity, the more easily we will master it. This is the case, for example, of languages, the ability to play a musical instrument, or physical skills. Bearing this in mind, swimming in schools with a lifeguard course seems to be a very convenient alternative for developing this ability.
This process is known as neuroplasticity. It is basically about the adaptations that occur in the organism at the neuronal level and that allow learning new skills, among other functions. In childhood, this process occurs with much greater ease. That explains why we are more skilled in those activities that we start doing at an early age.
Beyond this factor, directly related to the skill that a child can develop to swim, there are also other advantages that stem from the inclusion of swimming in the educational field. Next, we will delve into some of them.
Swimming in schools: benefits
According to this research, swimming is not only a convenient activity due to its physical benefits, but it also represents an important stimulus for brain development. For example, swimming is an activity that demands the concentration, attention, and coordination of the individual.
From a physical point of view, the benefits of this discipline are almost undeniable: muscle and bone development, increased cardiovascular endurance, improved balance and body posture, muscle relaxation, and combat sedentary lifestyle and obesity, two problems that are very present in the current child population.
In addition, swimming in schools can be a great tool for the safety of children in the present and future. With this built-in skill, a large number of water accidents could be prevented, including both your own and those involving third parties.
The school is a perfect environment for this sport
Now, why introduce swimming in schools when there are sports entities that include it among their disciplines? First of all, as a matter of fairness: the school would serve as a platform to introduce all children to water sports, including those who do not have the resources to join a club.
Likewise, it would also give them the opportunity to develop self-confidence through organized and progressive learning, which would take place in an environment known to them. In the long run, this enhances the autonomy of children. Similarly, instill in them healthy hygiene habits.
How to implement swimming in schools
Of course, the implementation of this type of program is not done overnight. In fact, careful planning is needed which, according to studies based on real cases and the rest of the consulted bibliography, should be based on the following concepts:
Pedagogical process: as in any other subject, the procedure for teaching children to swim must be progressive and with demands according to the characteristics of each child.
Curriculum structure and objectives: although a certain regularity is needed for the little ones to master this skill, it is not intended to harass them either. Swimming at school must be combined with other sports disciplines and the objectives set must be realistic and feasible.
Supervision: Continuous observation by a trained physical education professional is essential. Their ability to capture the motivation and attention of the little ones towards the proposed skills will also be central.
Conclusions
In short, we can say that swimming in schools is a very positive activity since it teaches children to control their body and develop it, to understand the value of breathing, and to coordinate their movements to carry out a task.
In addition, it is also a great opportunity for socialization and leads to the incorporation of healthy habits such as playing sports, showering, and putting on dry and clean clothes at the end of each session.
Finally, the possibility of combining this sports discipline with other subjects such as language, mathematics, biology, or history can be added. With this, you can get to organize its implementation at different educational levels without problems.
0 Comments