"Starfish" initiative: children get swimming lessons

80 children become "starfish

As many as 80 pre-school children were able to take their "little starfish" badge at Bahia in Bocholt in January - and thus take an important step towards learning to swim. The initiative aims to mitigate the negative consequences of the recent Corona pandemic with regard to swimming lessons.

Losing the fear of water

Above all, it is about losing the fear of water and supporting the children on their way to the Seahorse badge. "In addition, the free offer has also enabled us to reach children who have never visited a swimming pool before," says pool manager Sigrid ter Beek.

Specialist staff and trainees took intensive care of the young "starfish" - often in the morning hours when there were fewer visitors. In the group, the children experience the process of getting used to water in a fun way and strengthen their individual development. All children successfully completed the first course and received a certificate and a starfish badge at the end.