Grade 2 Movement Activities Swimming – Water safety Notes

Specific Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

• Identify at least five simple water safety rules (e.g., never swim alone, always have an adult) and explain why they are important.
• Show how to enter and exit water safely (use steps or ladder, face the pool, hold the handrail) with teacher help.
• Demonstrate basic safe behaviours in shallow water: holding the edge, kicking with a float, and trying a supported back float for a few seconds.
• Use the buddy system: choose a buddy and check each other before entering the water.
• Recognise and follow a lifeguard or adult’s instructions and know how to call for help (shout “help” or wave both arms).

Suggested Learning Experiences (for teachers & parents)

1. Circle time discussion (10 min): Use pictures or role-play to name safety rules. Make a classroom poster: “Our Water Safety Rules” — let children draw one rule each.
2. Poolside demonstration (10 min): Teacher shows safe entry and exit, how to hold the ladder, and how to check depth markings. Children practise walking to the ladder and sitting on the pool edge (no jumping).
3. Shallow-water activities (15–20 min): In shallow end with close adult supervision:
   • Bubble blowing — put face close to water and blow bubbles to get comfortable.
   • Kick practice — hold the pool edge or a float board and kick legs.
   • Supported back float — child lies back with teacher hands supporting neck/back; practise 5–10 seconds.
4. Buddy check activity (5–10 min): Pair children. Each pair checks: shoes off, no jewellery, floatation aid ready. Teach children to stay with their buddy.
5. Role-play emergency response (10 min): Teach the simple rule “Reach, Throw, Don’t Go”:
   • Reach with a stick or towel (push to the person).
   • Throw a float or rope (throw to them).
   • Don’t go into deep water to rescue — wait and get an adult or trained rescuer.
6. Out-of-school connection: Invite a parent or local lifeguard (or Kenyan Red Cross volunteer) to talk about water safety and show life jackets. If possible, arrange a supervised visit to a community swimming pool or beach with trained staff.

Materials & Preparation

• Shallow pool or safe shallow area supervised by teacher/guard.
• Floatation aids (life jackets or float belts) sized for children.
• Kickboards or float boards, towels, sunscreen, hats.
• First aid kit, mobile phone, and a clear plan to contact emergency services or local rescue (e.g., Kenyan Red Cross contacts).
• Poster paper and crayons for the classroom water-safety poster.

Safety Checklist for Teachers / Supervisors

• Always have at least one competent adult next to the water for every 6–8 children (reduce ratio for younger or less confident swimmers).
• Check water depth, visibility and for hazards (rocks at beaches, currents, steep drop-offs in lakes).
• No running on wet surfaces; remove jewellery that may catch on things.
• Ensure children wear life jackets where needed — especially at beaches, lakes (e.g., Lake Victoria) or during boat trips.
• Avoid swimming alone; insist on the buddy system at all times.
• Know how to contact local emergency services and local rescue teams (Kenyan Red Cross is a useful local resource for training).

Simple Assessment Ideas

• Ask each child to name three safety rules and explain one — use the classroom poster to help.
• Watch each child perform an entry/exit and a supported float; tick off a simple checklist (Can enter safely? Can hold edge? Tried supported float?).
• Observe buddy checks and give feedback — praise correct behaviour and correct mistakes gently.