Bubbles

We are a special parent and pre-school group based at Bettridge hydrotherapy pool. We meet every Thursday at 10.30am in the Assessment Centre and then go together to the hydrotherapy pool. We need to change and leave the pool again by 12.00 noon.

The group is open to any pre-school child with learning delay or other disability, as long as they are accompanied in the water by their parent/carer or adult family member. At present there is no waiting list, but we will need to keep the group small to ensure the quality of provision.

The session is designed to introduce young children to the pool environment and to experience the sensation of moving in the water. The water is warmer and quieter than the average swimming pool and a range of toys and flotation aids are available to explore and try out. A bubble chair can be used to enhance enjoyment!

Adults are welcome to swim for their own recreation when their child is safely buoyant, or when another adult is able to support them. A swimming instructor who is a qualified lifeguard is always present and a teacher experienced with pre-school and special needs children is available each session.

It is suggested that if a child receives help from a physiotherapist, their advice issought regarding particular activities that may be beneficial in the pool. The teacher or volunteers may assist the parent in carrying these out as needed.

The senior physiotherapist or her assistants based at Bettridge School may also be present on an occasional basis to advise on exercise programs for children who are already pupils at the school. They may also liase with a pre-school pupil’s own physiotherapist in order to advise on activities in the water.