Movement Activities: Swimming

Subtopic: Bending and Curling (age 6)

Simple fun notes for learners in Kenya. Use in a safe pool, shallow lake edge or beach with a teacher or parent close by. Keep it short and joyful!

What we will learn

• Bend forward with toes on the ground or pool floor.
• Curl into a small ball (tuck) to feel safe in water.
• Use bending and curling to begin floats and rolls.
• Follow teacher directions and stay safe near water.

Safety first

• Always an adult near the water. (Teacher or parent.)
• Shallow water only for first practice. Use float aids if needed.
• No running on the pool deck. Walk slowly.
• If you feel scared, sit down and breathe slowly.

Warm-up (3–5 minutes)

• Reach up to the sky 3 times (stretch).
• Bend forward to touch toes (or shins) 5 times—easy and slow.
• March on the spot 10 steps to wake up legs.

How to practice bending (on land first)

1. Stand with feet together. Arms down by your sides.
2. Bend at the waist and try to touch your toes. Knees may bend a little.
3. Stand up slowly. Count to 3: 1...2...3.
4. Repeat 5 times. Make it a slow game: who can be the calmest bender?

How to practice curling (tuck)

1. Sit on the pool step or on land with knees to chest.
2. Wrap your arms around your knees and tuck your head down. Make a small ball.
3. Breathe slowly. Count to 5 while you are curled.
4. Uncurl gently. Repeat 3 times. In water, hold a teacher’s hand or float aid.

Practice in water (with adult)

• Hold the pool edge or a noodle. Bend forward and splash gently.
• Sit on the shallow step and curl. Feel how the water holds you.
• Try a gentle roll from sitting curl to back float (teacher helps).

Games (fun practice)

• "Feed the Fish": Children bend to pick up a floating ball and curl to hide it (teacher collects).
• "Ball Turtle": Curl into a shell (ball) and the teacher counts to 5; when teacher says "Swim!" children uncurl.
• Who can make the calmest curl? Use slow breathing and a smile.

Teacher/Parent prompts

• "Show me a small ball!" (encourages curling)
• "Slowly bend and count to three." (encourages safe control)
• "Are you comfortable? Need a float?" (check feelings)

How to check learning (quick)

• Child can bend slowly and touch toes or shins.
• Child can curl and hold for 3–5 seconds with calm breathing.
• Child follows safety rules and listens to the adult.

Remember: Keep sessions short and happy for 6‑year‑olds. Reward bravery and calmness with stickers or a clap. Stay safe and enjoy the water! 🏊‍♂️🌊👏