Garland ISD kicked off their water safety classes for the year with Abbett being the first school to attend. All 2nd graders were offered the opportunity to participate in a water safety class designed to promote safety and awareness around bodies of water. Led by the Garland ISD natatorium staff and qualified instructors, the curriculum is a blend of information from the American Red Cross and Whale's Tales. Students spent the week learning to do their part and be water smart, including the following safety tips;
- Swim as a pair near a lifeguard chair
- How to float like a starfish
- Look before you leap
- Think so you don't sink
- Reach or throw don't go (lay on your stomach by the edge of the pool and use a pool noodle to help someone who needs help in the water)
- Don't just pack it wear your jacket
- Use your scoops to swim
Students were asked about their experience participating in the program and what they learned.
“We went in the deep end and swam to the very far side and back. Some kids were scared, but if you are nervous, just put on the life jacket and do what the life guards are doing. They helped us practice and learn how to float on our backs so we don’t sink.” ~Clay S.
“We learned about water safety so we can keep ourselves safe. One thing we learned is ‘be a pair by a lifeguard chair’ which means to have a partner and stay where the lifeguards are in case you need help. I also got to swim and hang out with my friends. On the last day, we went into the deep pool and I was scared. The lifeguard helped me and I swam all the way across the pool and then flipped on my back and swam back.” ~Adeline C.
“I learned how to float like a starfish, so if you can’t swim you can float on your back so you don’t sink. I didn’t want to do it at first, but the teachers were really nice and helped me. When I jumped in, I just felt so happy that I did it.” ~Camille K.
Learn more about the water safety program offered at the Garland ISD Natatorium.
