HE AQUATICS

Through joyful, playful activities, babies and adults explore the water together, including:

• Skin-to-skin contact to promote bonding and security
• Gentle floating on the front and back
• Supported tummy and back floats
• Singing and group activities to encourage relaxation
• Splashing and water play
• Simple movements such as “flip-flop” and “open and close the gate”
• Calm breathing awareness and relaxed immersion

The emphasis is on bonding, trust, and sensory exploration, helping babies feel safe and comfortable in the water while parents build confidence in handling and supporting their child safely.

As babies progress through the Starfish awards, they gradually experience:

Increased comfort and relaxation in the water

Improved body awareness and balance.

Greater confidence during floating and movement

Positive early foundations for future swimming lessons

The STA Starfish Programme creates a magical shared experience, strengthening the bond between parent and baby while laying the foundations for lifelong confidence, safety, and enjoyment in and around the water.

Please arrive 10 minutes before your lesson to allow time for parking, registering your car, changing and showering, so classes can begin promptly. After your session, you are welcome to stay for a short play if pool space allows. Babies, toddlers and preschoolers must wear a Happy Nappy. Thermal wraps and baby wetsuits can be borrowed or trialled by arrangement. We provide swimming aids, toys and weekly themed activities. Children receive a free certificate when completing an award. Up to two missed classes can be made up during the term. Lessons run termly, with occasional half-term sessions available as extra pay-as-you-go classes.