Over 1,250 children across Bristol, Bath, North Somerset and Wiltshire donned their pyjamas and took the plunge, taking part in local baby and child swim school, Puddle Ducks’ Pyjama Week.
The event, run by Puddle Ducks Bristol and Bath throughout February and March, was lots of fun for everyone involved, but also taught the little swimmers and their families vital swimming techniques, especially how it would feel if they ever found themselves in water fully clothed.
As the first Pyjama Week since before the pandemic, everyone was very excited to take part! It is often the favourite lesson for many little swimmers, and many teachers, with the fun exercises helping children to remember key skills for staying safe in the water.
Wendy Hussey Puddle Ducks swimming teacher in North Somerset, commented, “It is so important for children to learn about water safety and survival techniques in the water, especially after so many months out of the pool due to the pandemic. Our pyjama classes help children to experience how it feels to be submerged in water fully clothed, and what actions they would take to reach safety.
“With the summer months on the way and many families spending holidays or trips out by the water, these skills are more important than ever. But of course, it is also a lot of fun! Wearing your favourite pyjamas, jumping in the water and completing activities is a novelty all children enjoy, and a memory that will stay with them – helping if they ever find themselves in trouble in the water. Everyone involved had a lot of fun!”
Mum Julie added, “Pyjama day was not only a really fun event but a highly valuable safety exercise in helping my daughter Astrid understand how it feels to move in the water with clothes on. She loved the feeling of jumping into the water in pyjamas and practised the vital skill of clinging onto the side of the pool.”
Mum Jo said, “Both Arlo and I loved pyjama week at Puddle Ducks. Wendy our teacher was so encouraging and provided lots of fun opportunities for the children to experience what being clothed in water feels like. My son came away asking to wear pyjamas every week!”
Puddle Ducks provides award winning swimming classes for children from birth to 10 years old. Teachers focus on creating a nurturing environment, which supports independent swimming for children of all abilities.
For more information about Puddle Ducks Bristol and Bath please call 0117 971 7165, email email hidden; JavaScript is required or visit puddleducks.com to find your local class.