The ‘Kids Alive – Do the Five’ water safety education service will launch a series of new yoga virtual events throughout winter in a bid to combat a drop in swimming lessons; the leading drowning prevention method.
The innovative online program, which offers three different levels of yoga classes, aims to provide information about water safety to children through yoga-based movements and activities.
“During winter swimming lessons can sometimes be put to the bottom of the sports priority list,” says Emma Lawrence Kids Alive National Operations Manager. “We know swimming lessons drop by 20% during the cold seasons and that people just forget about water safety.
“However, winter drownings still account for 21% of total drownings, so it’s important to continue with your lessons,” she says. “Water safety is a year-round issue that we need to ensure young children are always learning about.”
The yoga series bring to life the Kids Alive water safety book series and cover safety rules for the pool, beach, home, and farm. They are aimed at children and parents of children under 5 years, the most at-risk category for drowning.
Emma said yoga was the perfect balance for children who love to swim but don’t go to lessons during the colder months.
“Yoga is the ideal complementary exercise for kids who love to swim, as it uses all your muscles, increases awareness of your body and can even help improve focus and self-esteem.”
Research shows that yoga and mindfulness can improve physical and mental health in children aged 6-12 years.
“Yoga has many similarities to swimming,” says Skye Skeffington from Karma Kids Club who worked alongside Emma to create the virtual yoga programs.
“Yoga improves balance, strength, endurance, and aerobic capacity in children. Swimming also supports children fitness in these areas, so when your child isn’t spending as much time in the pool this is a great outlet for them.”
“For parents looking for ways to keep their child’s mind and body occupied, yoga may be the perfect solution. Best of all, you can follow the yoga program alongside your kids,” she says.
“It’s a wonderful way to be playful and interactive with your kids, while helping to improve their flexibility and focus.”
The Kids Alive – Do the Five yoga virtual event can be found on Kidsalive.com.au.
Key Facts:
· Swimming lessons drop by 20% during the cold seasons, with winter drownings still accounting for 21% of total drownings
· With swimming lessons the leading drowning prevention method, continuing water safety practices through the cooler months is crucial
· To highlight water safety awareness during winter, the Kids Alive – Do the Five water safety education service is launching a series of new yoga virtual events to combat a drop in swimming lessons
