Learn the Stride Jump
The child jumps from the pool edge while standing, into water that is about chest-deep. Upon entering the water, the entire head submerges. This exercise primarily trains the core element of water acclimation.
Preparatory exercises
Pull along the edge
In the deep pool, the child pulls themselves along the edge, alternating hands, for about ten meters, then tries to climb out on their own — with parental support if needed. The tuck jump must be done in deep water to avoid injuries, but many children fear the depth: pulling along the edge familiarizes them with it. If your child is afraid, start with a regular jump before the tuck jump.
Jumping together is more fun
If your child is hesitant to jump into the water, it might help to swim with other children of the same age, such as siblings or friends. Group dynamics can encourage your child to take the leap as well. Make sure that most of the children are willing to jump, as this can reduce your child's fear.
Courage test over mat
Place a swim mat at the edge of the pool and hold it securely. The child should cross the mat in different ways. Shy children might start on all fours and become braver with repeated attempts. Ensure there are no other children or hard objects nearby. The goal is to reduce fear of the water, with the exercise being adaptable to each child's comfort level.
Sitting from pool edge
The child sits on the pool edge while you stand about one and a half meters away with outstretched arms. The child lets themselves fall into the water toward you; catch them with both arms only once they are in the water — catching them directly could lead to injuries from the momentum. Very similar to the core exercise but requiring less courage; keep a sufficiently large distance.
