insideKENT Magazine Issue 36 - March 2015 | Page 132

EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Welcome to Puddle Ducks East Kent!

by Samantha G

Iwade-based mum, Angela, launched local business, Puddle Ducks, in 2011. A unique
swimming experience, it offers a range of six specially tailored, age-specific classes,
allowing anything from newborn babies up to children of five years to learn vital skills in
water safety and confidence. You can even begin your Puddle Ducks' journey prior to your
baby's arrival with its aquanatal classes.
So armed (quite literally) with my
own little 'Floatie', insideKENT's
youngest reporter, Lyla, I headed
to the Sheldon Spa at Sheldwich –
one of the 14 intimate heated pools,
specifically chosen by Angela.
Classes are also offered in
Sittingbourne, Faversham,
Whitstable, Canterbury, Ramsgate,
Margate, Charing, Ashford, and
Sutton Valence.
The 30-minute classes teach
activities such as swimming,
submersion, floating, songs and
games. Lyla happily kicked,
splashed and floated her way
through the lesson and thoroughly
enjoyed the water-themed rhymes
and new Puddle Ducks' songs.
Using the instructions and the
unique hold and voice commands
that were imparted by Jenny, our
friendly teacher, Lyla was soon able

to move happily through the water
and even enjoyed her full
submersion!
The concept behind Puddle
Ducks is great, and the focus on
fun and easy-to-learn techniques
mean that the little ones don’t even
realise they’re learning to swim and
acquiring a skill that could one day
save their lives.
Puddle Ducks' classes not
only offer your baby a unique
sensory experience; they build a
confidence in the water that will last
a lifetime, and provide magical oneon-one time for you and your baby.
A result of extensive child
development research, the babyled concept ensures that invaluable
water saf WG